United States Launches Massive Strikes Against ISIL in Syria

Coordinated Strikes Following Fatal Ambush

The United States has conducted a new series of massive strikes against the ISIL group in Syria, in response to an ambush that resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter in the city of Palmyra last month. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that the strikes took place around 17:30 GMT and targeted "multiple ISIS locations throughout Syria."

Operation Hawkeye Strike Initiated

Meanwhile, CENTCOM emphasized that "our message remains clear: if you harm our forces, we will find you and eliminate you anywhere in the world, regardless of how much you try to evade justice." Although it was not specified whether there were casualties from the strikes, aerial images showed multiple explosions in rural areas.

Collaboration with Partner Forces

The attacks were carried out in conjunction with partner forces, although the specific details of these partners were not disclosed. The response to the ambush in Palmyra has been labeled Operation Hawkeye Strike. The ambush on December 13 was particularly serious, as a single attacker, believed to be a member of the security forces, opened fire. This individual was reportedly facing dismissal due to his extremist beliefs.

Cooperation with the Syrian Government

The Syrian Democratic Forces, led by Kurdish fighters, have been the main partner of the U.S. in the fight against ISIL for years. However, following the ousting of former president Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Washington has increasingly collaborated with the central government in Damascus. Syria joined the global coalition against ISIL after an agreement was reached last year during Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit to the White House.

Reduction of American Troops

President Donald Trump has always been skeptical about the U.S. presence in Syria, ordering a withdrawal of troops during his first term but leaving behind American forces in the country. Nearly 1,000 U.S. soldiers remain in Syria, and the U.S. military has stated that it will continue to reduce personnel and consolidate its presence to a single base.