The United States executed a large-scale military operation against Islamic State targets in Syria, striking 70 locations associated with terrorist infrastructure and weapons production. The action followed closely after a deadly attack that claimed the lives of three Americans working to combat ISIS in the region.
An assault on a coalition convoy near Palmyra resulted in the deaths of two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter who were supporting ongoing counter-terrorism operations. The attack, carried out by an individual within Syrian security forces suspected of ISIS sympathies, also wounded three American service members before the assailant was killed. The incident underscored the persistent threat posed by ISIS despite years of military pressure against the organization.
The retaliatory operation, named Operation Hawkeye Strike, targeted extensive ISIS holdings across central Syria. Military officials described the strikes as targeting key terrorist infrastructure necessary for ISIS to plan attacks and maintain operational capability. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that the action represented American determination to protect its forces and eliminate threats, stating the operation was about “vengeance” for fallen Americans.
Syria’s transitional government has aligned itself with US counter-terrorism objectives, marking a significant change in bilateral relations. President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s administration, which took power after deposing Bashar al-Assad, has expressed support for efforts to eliminate ISIS from Syrian territory. President Trump acknowledged this cooperation, suggesting Syria has prospects for positive development if the terrorist threat can be neutralized.
The American military maintains presence at several locations throughout Syria despite ongoing discussions about force reductions. The Pentagon previously announced intentions to decrease personnel by half over coming months, with plans to eventually consolidate operations to a single base. However, recent events may influence these timelines as military planners reassess the ISIS threat. Current US deployments focus on Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria and strategic positions near the Jordanian border, where forces continue working with international partners to prevent ISIS resurgence.