US hits IS with Christmas Day strikes

The Pentagon says five Christmas Day air strikes were carried out in Syria and 12 in Iraq.

The United States hit Islamic State group targets in Iraq and Syria with 17 air strikes on Christmas Day, the Pentagon says.

The strikes targeting Islamic State fighters, facilities and vehicles were carried out by fighter aircraft, bombers and remotely controlled aircraft.

The Pentagon said on Saturday five of the strikes were carried out in Syria and 12 in Iraq.

They targeted Islamic State tunnels, explosive manufacturing sites and other targets such as bridges and Islamic State fighting outposts.

All US aircraft returned safely.

The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve.