US and allied forces executed a series of “large-scale” airstrikes targeting the Islamic State (IS) jihadist group in Syria over the weekend, marking the latest military response to a deadly attack last month that resulted in the deaths of three Americans.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that multiple strikes were conducted across various locations in Syria as part of Operation Hawkeye Strike. This operation was initiated specifically in reaction to a lethal ambush on US and Syrian forces in Palmyra, which is internationally recognized for its ancient ruins and has a history of IS occupation.
Accompanying CENTCOM’s announcement, grainy aerial footage showcased several explosions in rural areas, although specific locations of the strikes were not disclosed. Furthermore, the Jordanian military reported that its air force participated in the operation, executing targeted strikes against IS positions within Syrian territory.
The attack in question occurred on December 13, when a lone gunman, identified by US authorities as an IS member, ambushed two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter in Palmyra. Reports later emerged from Syria’s interior ministry stating that the assailant was a member of the security forces who was reportedly set to be removed from his position due to extremist views.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed determination in response to the attack, affirming in a statement that the US would not forget the incident. Last month, US and Jordanian forces conducted a previous series of strikes in retaliation for the Palmyra attack, targeting over 70 locations linked to IS and reportedly resulting in the deaths of at least five militants, including a cell leader.
On January 3, the UK and France also reported coordinating strikes that targeted an underground facility believed to be utilized by IS for weapon storage. The US personnel involved in the Palmyra ambush were part of Operation Inherent Resolve, an international campaign aimed at dismantling IS, which had once gained extensive control over regions in Syria and Iraq in 2014.
Despite IS being defeated by local forces with international backing, the group continues to maintain an operational presence in various areas, particularly in Syria’s expansive desert terrain. Historically, US strategy in Syria has been contentious, characterized by former President Donald Trump’s skepticism about America’s military role in the region, leading to troop withdrawals and adjustments in presence.
In recent communications, the Pentagon indicated plans to reduce the number of US personnel in Syria by half in the coming months, while further assessments suggested that operational bases may eventually be consolidated to just one.
