By Lucy Crossley for MailOnline The United States has started carrying out air strikes close to an Iraqi dam to stop Islamic State militants from capturing it. A US. defence official today confirmed the country's air force had commenced strikes around Haditha Dam in western Iraq, targeting insurgents there for the first time. While Anbar province, where the dam is located, remains in control of the Iraqis, the US offensive was an effort to beat back militants who have been trying to take over key dams across the country, including the Haditha complex. Scroll down for video Air strikes: Pentagon spokesman Rear Admiral John Kirby confirmed today that the country's air force had commenced air strikes targeting Islamic State militants around Haditha Dam in western Iraq
@highlight
US officials confirm strikes around Haditha Dam in western Iraq
@highlight
Offensive aims to beat back militants trying to take over dams around Iraq
@highlight
Dam is a major source of water and electrical power
@highlight
Strikes were made at the request of Iraqi government, says US spokesman
The airstrikes are aimed at protecting @placeholder personnel and facilities, as well protecting critical infrastructure and aiding refugees fleeing the militants.