US 'sending additional forces' to Baghdad amid protests

WASHINGTON

The U.S. is sending additional troops to Baghdad to safeguard its personnel amid protests against Washington's airstrikes last weekend.

Secretary of Defense Mark Esper said the Pentagon is working closely with the State Department to ensure the security of its embassy and personnel but he did not elaborate on the number or timing of the announced deployment.

"We have taken appropriate force protection actions to ensure the safety of American citizens, military personnel and diplomats in country, and to ensure our right of self-defense. We are sending additional forces to support our personnel at the Embassy," said Esper.