(CNN) — [Breaking news update at 9:45 p.m. ET Thursday]
U.S. President Barack Obama said Thursday he’d authorized targeted airstrikes in Iraq to protect American personnel.
“We do whatever is necessary to protect our people. We support our allies when they’re in danger,” Obama said.
Obama also said he’d authorized targeted airstrikes “if necessary” to help forces in Iraq fighting to protect civilians trapped in the mountains as brutal Islamist fighters advance.
“When we have the unique capabilities to help avert a massacre, then I believe the United States of America cannot turn a blind eye,” Obama said.