WASHINGTON: The United States military, alongside coalition partners, has executed large-scale airstrikes against multiple ISIS targets in Syria, a direct response to a deadly attack on American personnel earlier this month.
In an official statement, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the operations, describing them as part of “Operation Hawkeye Strike.” The campaign was launched on December 19, 2025, under the direction of President Donald Trump, in retaliation for an ISIS assault on American and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Palmyra, Syria, on December 13. That attack resulted in the deaths of two U.S. soldiers and an American civilian translator.
CENTCOM officials stated the objective of the sustained strikes is to continue pressure on the militant group, degrade its capabilities, prevent future attacks, and ensure the protection of American and coalition forces stationed in the region. The command emphasized that the operations are a demonstration of the U.S.’s continued commitment to the counter-ISIS mission, even years after the group’s territorial caliphate was dismantled.
The statement concluded with a stern warning, underscoring that the U.S. will hold aggressors accountable. “If American troops are harmed, the responsible elements will be sought and brought to justice anywhere in the world,” CENTCOM asserted.
The strikes represent a significant escalation in military action against ISIS remnants in Syria and highlight the volatile security situation that persists in the country, where U.S. forces maintain a presence primarily in the northeast alongside the SDF.
