U.S. Military Conducts Large-Scale Strikes Against ISIS Targets in Syria

Retaliatory operation follows an attack on American personnel, highlighting ongoing counter-terrorism challenges.

WASHINGTON — The United States military carried out extensive air and ground strikes against Islamic State positions in central Syria on Friday, responding to an ambush earlier this month that killed two U.S. soldiers and a civilian interpreter. Officials described the operation as one of the most significant counter-terror efforts against ISIS remnants in the region in recent months.

The campaign, called Operation Hawkeye Strike, targeted more than 70 sites linked to ISIS. The operation included U.S. Air Force F‑15 and A‑10 fighter jets, Apache attack helicopters, and HIMARS rocket artillery systems. Jordanian fighter aircraft also participated, demonstrating regional cooperation in the mission.

Context of the Strikes

On December 13, U.S. and allied forces near Palmyra, Syria, were ambushed by an ISIS-affiliated gunman, resulting in two American deaths and the death of a civilian interpreter. Three additional U.S. personnel were wounded. The incident marked the first combat fatalities for U.S. troops in Syria during this phase of the conflict.

President Donald Trump and his national security team pledged decisive retaliation. Officials emphasized that the strikes aimed to degrade ISIS capabilities without escalating into broader conflict. The operation was framed as a measured response to a specific attack, rather than the start of new military engagement.

Execution and Scope

The strikes hit infrastructure, weapons storage, command centers, and logistical hubs across central Syrian provinces, including Deir Ezzor and areas near Raqqa, once ISIS’s stronghold. Over 100 precision munitions were employed in a coordinated campaign combining air and ground assets. Jordanian participation reflected ongoing partnership in regional counter-terrorism efforts.

U.S. Central Command highlighted that the operation’s coordinated approach allowed simultaneous targeting across multiple fronts while minimizing risk to civilians and friendly forces. Officials noted that these efforts are part of sustained pressure against ISIS, which remains capable of lethal attacks despite losing territorial control.

Strategic and Regional Implications

The strikes underline the enduring threat posed by ISIS remnants. Although the group no longer controls significant territory, it continues to exploit security gaps for targeted attacks. The Palmyra ambush and subsequent U.S. retaliation illustrate the persistent need for vigilance and adaptive strategy in counter-terrorism operations.

The Syrian government, cooperating with U.S.-led forces against ISIS, publicly supported the strikes. This cooperation highlights shifting regional alliances and underscores the delicate balance U.S. forces maintain between military action and diplomatic engagement.

Military officials stressed that the strikes aimed to disrupt ISIS operations without provoking broader conflict. Maintaining security for U.S. personnel and partner forces remains the primary objective.

Domestic and International Response

In Washington, bipartisan lawmakers acknowledged the necessity of a clear Middle East strategy. While some requested more detailed briefings on force posture and risk assessment, others supported targeted counter-terrorism operations designed to limit broader entanglements. International partners expressed cautious approval for precision strikes while emphasizing continued diplomatic efforts.

Humanitarian groups voiced concern about civilian safety in areas affected by the strikes. They urged careful evaluation of collateral impacts and reinforcement of local infrastructure where possible, reflecting the ongoing tension between military necessity and humanitarian responsibility.

Looking Ahead

With this phase of Operation Hawkeye Strike concluded, U.S. officials continue to monitor the region and remain prepared for further action if needed. Suppressing ISIS remnants and supporting local governance remain central to U.S. strategy in Syria and the broader Middle East, alongside diplomatic engagement to promote stability.