The United Kingdom and France carried out a joint airstrike on an underground facility in central Syria that was being used by the so-called Islamic State (IS/Daesh), the UK Ministry of Defence said on Sunday.
According to official statements, RAF Typhoon fighter aircraft and French military jets used precision-guided munitions to target multiple access tunnels leading to the site, located in the mountainous region north of the ancient city of Palmyra. The strike was conducted on Saturday evening.
Target Used for Weapons Storage
UK officials said the underground complex had been used by Daesh, likely for storing weapons and explosives. The surrounding area was assessed to be devoid of civilians, reducing the risk of collateral damage. A detailed post-strike assessment is under way, with initial indications suggesting the target was successfully hit.
Part of Ongoing Counter-IS Operations
The Ministry of Defence noted that RAF aircraft continue to conduct patrols over Syria to prevent any attempted resurgence of IS, following the group’s territorial defeat at the Battle of Baghuz in 2019.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey said the operation demonstrated Britain’s resolve to act alongside allies against terrorism.
“The UK is determined to stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies to stamp out any resurgence of this terrorist movement,” Healey said, thanking the armed forces for their “professionalism and courage”.
He added that the strike highlighted the readiness of British forces, many of whom were deployed over the Christmas and New Year period, to act year-round to protect national and international security.
Allied Coordination
The joint operation underscores continued UK–France military cooperation in counter-terrorism missions and the broader international effort to ensure that IS does not regain operational footholds in Syria or the wider region.
The strike comes amid ongoing concerns among Western allies about residual IS cells exploiting instability in parts of Syria, reinforcing the importance of sustained surveillance and targeted action.
