Did the US Strike ISIS Targets Across Syria?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Operation Hawkeye Strike targets ISIS positions across Syria.
- The operation is a direct response to a deadly ambush on US personnel.
- US officials emphasize a commitment to safeguarding American forces.
- President Trump ordered the strikes following increased threats from ISIS.
- The military aims to disrupt ISIS networks to prevent future attacks.
Washington, Jan 11 (NationPress) The US Central Command announced that American forces, in collaboration with allied troops, executed extensive strikes against various ISIS positions across Syria. This operation was initiated in response to a lethal attack on US personnel that occurred in December.
The airstrikes were conducted on Saturday at approximately 12:30 p.m. Eastern Time as part of Operation Hawkeye Strike, which was officially launched and disclosed on December 19, 2025, according to CENTCOM.
US authorities stated that the operation was ordered by President Donald Trump following a December 13 ambush on US and Syrian forces located in Palmyra, Syria. This assault, attributed to an ISIS terrorist, resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers and a US civilian interpreter.
“These strikes are part of Operation Hawkeye Strike,” CENTCOM remarked, identifying the campaign as a direct reaction to the Palmyra attack.
The US military confirmed that the recent strikes targeted ISIS strongholds throughout Syria, aiming to thwart future threats against American and allied forces in the area.
“The strikes conducted today targeted ISIS across Syria, reflecting our ongoing commitment to eradicate Islamic terrorism against our warfighters, prevent future assaults, and safeguard American and allied forces in the region,” CENTCOM stated in a release.
The command affirmed that US and coalition forces are steadfast in their pursuit of ISIS militants who continue to represent a danger. “US and coalition forces remain committed to tracking down terrorists who aim to harm the United States,” the release noted.
CENTCOM did not immediately share specifics on the number of targets engaged, the precise locations struck, or the types of munitions utilized. They also did not provide an assessment regarding damage or potential casualties resulting from these strikes.
US officials portrayed the operation as a vital component in deterring attacks on American forces stationed abroad and as a message that assaults on US personnel will be met with decisive action.
“Our message is clear: if you endanger our warfighters, we will locate and eliminate you anywhere in the world, regardless of how much you try to avoid justice,” CENTCOM’s release emphasized.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced this sentiment in a brief social media update following the announcement of the strikes. “We will never forget, and never relent,” Hegseth posted on X.
Launched last month, Operation Hawkeye Strike is intended as a sustained campaign, rather than merely a singular retaliatory operation. US officials have indicated that the goal is to disrupt ISIS networks and prevent the group from reestablishing its operational capabilities.