U.S. Opens Retaliatory Offensive Against ISIS in Syria
The United States military launched a significant strike against Islamic State (ISIS) fighters and weapons infrastructure in central Syria on Friday, marking a robust response to a deadly ambush that claimed the lives of two U.S. soldiers and an American civilian interpreter earlier this month. The campaign, involving airstrikes, helicopters and allied forces, targeted dozens of militant positions across the region.
President Donald Trump described the operation as a firm act of retribution and emphasized the U.S. commitment to eliminating the threat posed by extremist elements. He reiterated that ongoing counterterrorism efforts in the region remain a priority for U.S. national security.
Operation Hawkeye Strike: Strategy and Scope
The offensive, designated Operation Hawkeye Strike, focused on disrupting ISIS fighters’ ability to regroup and launch future attacks. U.S. Central Command reported that more than 70 Islamic State targets — including weapon stores and command posts — were struck during the coordinated mission.
U.S. Air Force F-15 and A-10 aircraft led the assault, supported by Apache attack helicopters, rocket artillery, and allied Jordanian jets, underscoring the broad military capability used in the operation. Defense officials stated additional strikes could follow as part of sustained pressure on extremist cells.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth framed the effort as a decisive blow against militant infrastructure, stressing that the U.S. will continue hunting any group or individual responsible for targeting American personnel overseas.
Background: Attack That Sparked Retaliation
The recent U.S. counter-ISIS mission stems from an ambush near Palmyra, Syria, on December 13, where a suspected Islamic State affiliate attacked a joint patrol of U.S. and Syrian troops. The assault resulted in the deaths of two Iowa National Guard service members and an American civilian interpreter, and wounded several others.
In response, Trump vowed “very serious retaliation” and framed the air and ground strikes as a necessary measure to protect U.S. forces and dismantle militant networks that continue to operate despite past defeats.
The U.S. military maintains a presence in Syria aimed at preventing the resurgence of extremist groups, working alongside regional partners to enhance stability and counterterrorism.
