US strikes Iran-backed groups' facilities in Syria after base attacks

The US says it has carried out air strikes on facilities in eastern Syria used by groups affiliated with Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC).

Nine ammunition and storage bunkers in Deir al-Zour province were hit early on Wednesday, US military officials said.

Activists said six guards were killed, while Iran denied links to the targets.

President Joe Biden ordered the strikes "to defend and protect US forces" in Syria following several attacks on them blamed on Iran-backed groups.

On 15 August, two drones attacked the al-Tanf Garrison, in the southern desert, and rockets landed near the Green Village base in Deir al-Zour. Neither attack caused any casualties.

About US 1,000 troops are operating out of the bases, without the permission of the Syrian government, as part of the US-led global coalition against the jihadist group Islamic State (IS).