Iraq Has Requested US Airstrikes

The Iraqi government has requested US military airstrikes to help combat widespread violence in Iraq, led by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), the top American general told Congress Wednesday.
Earlier Wednesday morning, Air Force Secretary would be ready to conduct air strikes and support missions in Iraq if directed by President Barack Obama.
The Air Force could be ready within hours to conduct a variety of missions in Iraq, including airlift, reconnaissance, strike, aerial refueling, and command and control.
The Pentagon has basing arrangements with numerous countries throughout the Middle East, including Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Dozens of Air Force aircraft, including F-15E, F-16 and F-22 fighters; KC-135 tankers; A-10 strike aircraft; B-1B bombers; C-17 and C-130 transports; and an array of unmanned aircraft are already based or rotating though the region.
Additional assets could be brought into the Middle East, if necessary.
The Obama administration is considering a number of options to combat ISIL, which has reportedly taken control of a number of cities throughout the country.
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