Isis in Iraq: France launches first air strike on Islamic State targets
President Hollande's office says fighter jets have 'destroyed' a logistics depot
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.France has carried out its first air strike in Iraq, destroying a logistics depot held by the Islamic State (Isis) militants.
The office of President Francois Hollande said Rafale fighter jets struck the depot in north eastern Iraq and the target was "entirely destroyed". In a statement, it said other operations will continue in the coming days.
At a news conference on Thursday, Mr Hollande said France had agreed to conduct airstrikes requested by Iraq to bolster its fight against Isis fighters who have captured swathes of the country.
However, he stressed France would not go beyond airstrikes in support of the Iraqi military or Kurdish Peshmerga forces, and would not attack targets in Syria, where Isis is also advancing.
The statement did not give details on the type of material at the depot or its exact location.
US Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, praised France for taking such action.
"The French were our very first ally and they are there again for us," he told reporters travelling with him in Normandy.
Additional reporting by agencies
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments