US launches airstrikes against IS targets in Libya's Sirte

TRIPOLI -- The US launched the first airstrikes against the Islamic State (IS) targets in the Libyan city of Sirte, at the request of Libya's UN-brokered government, the prime minister said in a televised speech.

"The first airstrikes were carried out on precise positions of the IS in Sirte, causing heavy losses," Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj said.

In Washington, Pentagon confirmed the operation in a statement, saying "additional US strikes will continue to target ISIL in Sirte in order to enable the GNA (Government of National Accord) to make a decisive, strategic advance."

It said the US stands with the international community in supporting the GNA as it strives to restore stability and security to Libya.

Since May, Libya's UN-backed government have been striking the IS targets in Sirte, about 450 kilometres east of the capital city Tripoli.