February 2001 airstrike in Iraq
| February 2001 airstrike in Iraq | |
|---|---|
| Part of Iraqi no-fly zones conflict | |
| Type | Missile attacks |
| Location | Taji radar site 33°31′59″N 44°14′02″E / 33.533°N 44.234°E |
| Planned by | United States United Kingdom |
| Date | February 16, 2001 |
| Executed by | United States Air Force Royal Air Force |
| Casualties | 3 civilians killed 25 injured injured |
On February 16, 2001, U.S. President George W. Bush ordered airstrikes on five military targets near the Iraqi capital of Baghdad. The strikes came in response to imminent Iraqi threats to aircraft patrolling the no-fly zones. Many countries, including U.S. allies, have condemned the airstrikes, which they have called illegal. The United States Armed Forces said the bombing was essentially a self-defense operation, due to the increased frequency and enhanced capabilities of Iraqi air defense systems. It was President Bush's first military action since taking office.