Bombing by Presidential Decree

President Barack Obama has approved US shelling of ISIS rebels in Iraq. The go ahead for airborne operations was given after the White House claimed that people from the Yazidi religious minority stranded on mountains were facing genocide.

Obama's decision to approve this type of 'humanitarian military intervention' will anger many who view it as inconsistent with his policy of arming Israel while it waged war on Gaza.

Former US presidents were embroiled in much international controversy as a result of bombing raids. Richard Nixon faced strong criticism over US bombing of Cambodia.

President Eamon de Valera receives President Nixon on 5 October 1970

Purchase framed photographs and prints @ Irish Photo Archive