The U.S. military conducted airstrikes targeting bases in eastern Syria that were reportedly used by Iranian-backed militant groups. The strikes were authorized by U.S. President Joe Biden. They were intended to send a message to Iran and Iranian-backed militia groups operating in the region, according to the Pentagon. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated the strikes were a "direct response" to the threats and attacks against U.S. personnel by Iranian-backed forces. The strikes targeted infrastructure and weapons storage facilities used by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps and affiliated groups.