Did the US Launch Airstrikes on ISIS Targets in Syria as Retaliation for a Deadly Attack?
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Synopsis
In a decisive move, the United States has launched airstrikes against Islamic State targets in Syria following a deadly attack on American personnel. This operation, known as Operation Hawkeye Strike, signifies a strong retaliation and a commitment to defending US citizens against terrorism.
Key Takeaways
- The US conducted airstrikes on ISIS targets in Syria.
- This action was a retaliation for a deadly attack on US personnel.
- Operation Hawkeye Strike aimed to eliminate ISIS fighters and infrastructure.
- Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth described the operation as a declaration of vengeance.
- The US will continue to pursue and eliminate threats against its citizens.
Washington, Dec 20 (NationPress) The United States has executed a series of airstrikes targeting numerous Islamic State (IS) positions throughout central Syria, officials confirmed, as a reaction to a lethal assault on American personnel last week.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth verified that the operation, named Operation Hawkeye Strike, aimed at ISIS fighters, their infrastructure, and weaponry, indicating that further actions may be taken.
Hegseth remarked that this was not the commencement of a war but rather a “declaration of vengeance”, stating that they have identified and eliminated many adversaries and will persist in doing so.
In a message on X (formerly Twitter), Hegseth detailed: “Earlier today, US forces initiated OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE in Syria to eradicate ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites in direct response to the attack on US forces that occurred on December 13th in Palmyra, Syria.”
He continued, “This is not the start of a war — it is a declaration of vengeance. The United States, under President Trump’s guidance, will not hesitate to defend our citizens.”
“Following the brutal attack, we made it clear: if you target Americans anywhere globally, you will live in fear knowing that the United States will pursue you relentlessly. Today, we hunted down and eliminated our foes. Many of them. And we shall continue this mission,” he added.
The airstrikes were a direct response to a deadly incident last weekend near Palmyra, resulting in the deaths of two US Army soldiers and a US civilian interpreter, alongside injuries to three additional US soldiers.
The assailant attacked a convoy consisting of American and Syrian forces before being neutralized by military personnel.
US President Donald Trump had promised “serious retaliation” after the incident, with White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly stating that the strikes were a fulfillment of that pledge: “President Trump assured the world that the United States would respond to the killing of our heroes by ISIS in Syria, and he is following through on that commitment.”
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the complexities surrounding military actions in Syria. While the airstrikes represent a response to threats against US personnel, they also highlight the ongoing challenges in addressing terrorism in the region. The commitment to protect American lives must be balanced with the broader implications of military intervention.
NationPress
20/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the US airstrikes in Syria?
The airstrikes were initiated in response to a deadly attack on US personnel that occurred on December 13th in Palmyra, Syria, resulting in casualties among American forces.
What was Operation Hawkeye Strike?
Operation Hawkeye Strike was the name given to the US airstrikes targeting ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapon sites in central Syria as a retaliation for the previous attack on US personnel.
Who confirmed the US airstrikes?
The airstrikes were confirmed by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who emphasized the operation's purpose and the ongoing commitment to countering ISIS.
What was President Trump's stance on the attack?
President Trump vowed serious retaliation against ISIS following the attack on US personnel, stating that the United States would not hesitate to defend its citizens.
What were the consequences of the attack that prompted the airstrikes?
The attack resulted in the deaths of two US Army soldiers and a US civilian interpreter, as well as injuries to three other US soldiers, prompting a strong military response.
