US Military Launches Major Strikes Against ISIS in Syria

The recent escalation of tensions in Syria has prompted a strong military response from the United States. Following the tragic deaths of two American soldiers and an interpreter in an attack in Palmyra, President Donald Trump announced significant retaliation measures targeting ISIS strongholds. This article delves into the ongoing operations and international responses surrounding this issue.

US Response to ISIS Attacks

President Trump asserted that the United States military is launching serious strikes against ISIS positions in Syria. On his Truth Social platform, he stated, “Because of ISIS’s vicious killing of brave American Patriots in Syria… I am hereby announcing that the United States is inflicting very serious retaliation, just as I promised, on the murderous terrorists responsible.” This announcement comes a week after the deadly incident that resulted in the loss of American lives.

The Syrian government, which has transitioned since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in late 2024, expressed its support for the US military actions. The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its commitment to fighting ISIS, stating, “The Syrian Arab Republic reiterates its steadfast commitment to fighting ISIS and ensuring that it has no safe havens on Syrian territory.” This pledge highlights a coordinated effort against the terrorist organization.

Details of the Military Operation

Cited by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the military operation, named Operation Hawkeye Strike, focuses on eliminating ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapon caches. In a message on social media, Hegseth declared, “This is not the beginning of a war — it is a declaration of vengeance. Today, we hunted and we killed our enemies. Lots of them. And we will continue.”

According to anonymous US officials, the strikes targeted multiple locations across central Syria, indicating a comprehensive approach to dismantling ISIS capabilities. However, specific details regarding the success of the strikes and casualty numbers remain forthcoming as the US military’s Central Command (CENTCOM) prepares to release more information.

International Implications

Al Jazeera’s correspondent in Washington, DC, noted that Trump’s and Hegseth’s statements firmly establish that the deaths of US personnel would be met with appropriate retaliation. Jordan observed that while the Syrian government seems to support the operation, it is unclear if Syrian defense forces are directly involved in these attacks.

Furthermore, Jordan remarked on the broader implications of US actions, suggesting that eliminating what is perceived as a national security threat—namely, ISIS—could facilitate Syria’s transition to a more stable and sovereign state.

Background of the Attacks

The fatalities of three Americans, including two members of the National Guard and a civilian interpreter, occurred when an attacker targeted a convoy comprising US and Syrian forces in Palmyra. Following the assault, which also injured three American soldiers, the US military remains steadfast in its mission to combat the remaining ISIS presence in the region.

Currently, approximately 1,000 US troops are stationed in Syria as part of an extensive operation that dates back several years. The US-led coalition has continued to execute air and ground strikes against ISIS, often in collaboration with Syrian security forces. The recent cooperation between the newly formed Syrian government and US forces underscores a shared objective to eradicate the threat posed by terrorism.

Conclusion

The ongoing conflict in Syria illustrates the complexities of international military engagements and the persistent threat posed by terrorist groups like ISIS. As the US strikes intensify in response to recent attacks, the situation remains dynamic, with potential implications for the future of both US and Syrian military cooperation.