The United States military has launched extensive air and ground strikes against Islamic State positions in Syria, following a deadly attack that killed three Americans during a counterterrorism mission earlier this month.
According to U.S. officials, the strikes were carried out in retaliation for the December 13 attack near Palmyra, in which two U.S. Army soldiers and a U.S. civilian interpreter lost their lives. The operation marks one of the most significant U.S. military actions against ISIS in Syria in recent years.
Operation Hawkeye Strike Launched
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that American forces have commenced Operation Hawkeye Strike, aimed at eliminating ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites. He described the operation as a “direct response” to the Palmyra attack and stated that a large number of ISIS militants were neutralised.
“This is not the beginning of a war — it is a declaration of vengeance,” Hegseth said, underlining the punitive nature of the operation.
Advanced Airpower Deployed
The U.S. military employed a wide range of assets, including A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft, F-16 fighter jets, Apache attack helicopters, and HIMARS rocket systems. Jordanian F-16 fighter jets also provided support, highlighting regional cooperation in counter-ISIS operations.
Officials indicated that the strikes are expected to continue for several weeks, with the objective of preventing ISIS from regrouping and re-establishing operational bases in the region.
Trump Vows Strong Retaliation
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the strikes on social media, stating that the United States was “inflicting very serious retaliation” on ISIS for the killing of American personnel.
“We are striking very strongly against ISIS strongholds in Syria,” Trump said, adding that the region could have a “bright future if ISIS can be eradicated.”
The White House reaffirmed that the action was in line with the president’s earlier pledge to respond decisively to the attack.
Details of the December 13 Attack
The attack occurred while U.S. forces were conducting a key leader engagement in support of ongoing counter-ISIS operations. The victims included two Iowa National Guard soldiers and a U.S. civilian interpreter. Three additional U.S. personnel were wounded.
Syrian authorities later stated that the attacker had infiltrated local security forces and was suspected of having ISIS links before being killed during the incident.
Continued U.S. Focus on Counterterrorism
The latest strikes underscore Washington’s continued commitment to degrading ISIS capabilities and protecting U.S. forces deployed overseas. While officials have ruled out a broader war, they emphasised that the United States would respond forcefully to any threats against its personnel.
Further details on casualties and damage from the strikes are expected to be released in the coming days.
