U.S. Launches Large-Scale Retaliatory Strikes on ISIS Targets in Syria
In a significant military operation, the United States has conducted extensive strikes against Islamic State (IS) targets in Syria. The series of attacks, named Operation Hawkeye Strike, was a direct response to the deaths of two Iowa National Guard soldiers and a civilian U.S. interpreter in a terrorist attack in Syria last week.
The Retaliation
The operation involved U.S. fighter jets, attack helicopters, artillery, and also included support from Jordanian fighter aircraft. According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the allied forces struck more than 70 alleged terrorist targets across central Syria using over 100 precision-guided munitions. The hardest hit was the IS hideouts in the Deir ez-Zor Governorate.
President Donald Trump confirmed the success of the retaliatory strike, emphasizing its precision. This is not the beginning of a war — it is a declaration of vengeance,
said Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, echoing the President's sentiment. The United States of America, under President Trump’s leadership, will never hesitate and never relent to defend our people.
The Trigger
The strikes were a response to a terrorist attack on December 13 in Palmyra, Syria, that killed two Iowa National Guard soldiers and a civilian U.S. interpreter. The U.S. vowed to avenge the deaths, with President Trump stating, We are striking very strongly against ISIS strongholds in Syria.
The Impact
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that at least five IS members were killed in the strikes. While the Syrian government did not directly comment on the U.S. actions, it did affirm its intent to intensify efforts to fight the terrorist group. The Syrian Foreign Ministry also called upon the United States and other members of the international coalition to support Syria’s counterterrorism efforts.
Ongoing Commitment
Despite the large-scale nature of the strikes, the U.S. has signaled that its involvement is not an indication of a commitment to remain in the conflict in Syria. Rather, the strikes are seen as an act of vengeance and a demonstration of the U.S.'s dedication to protecting its personnel and retaliating against those who harm them.
The Pentagon has released declassified combat footage from the operation, showing airstrikes and explosions hitting suspected militant positions at multiple locations. CENTCOM stated, We will continue to hunt terrorists who want to harm Americans.
The retaliatory strikes underscore the challenge the U.S. and its allies face in their ongoing battle against terrorism. As the situation continues to develop, the international community will be closely watching the United States' actions and the broader implications for the conflict in Syria.