US Conducts 'Large-Scale' Strikes on ISIS in Syria Following December Attack
The US military, in conjunction with its allies, conducted large-scale
strikes against ISIS targets in Syria on Saturday, in retaliation to the December attack that claimed the lives of three Americans in Palmyra. The operation, dubbed 'Operation Hawkeye Strike', is part of the intensifying response from Washington following the deadly ambush last month.
Background
On December 13, an ISIS gunman staged an attack in the historically significant city of Palmyra, killing two US soldiers and an American civilian interpreter. The city, home to UNESCO-listed ancient ruins, was once controlled by jihadist fighters. This marked the second time since December 19, 2025, that the US military has struck Islamic State targets in Syria.
The Strike Details
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), these strikes were aimed at ISIS strongholds throughout Syria. Over 20 fighter jets were reportedly involved, firing around 90 high-precision missiles at IS targets. This operation involved multiple allied forces, however, specific details have not been disclosed.
Al Arabiya reported, US fighter jets deliver strikes against 35 Islamic State locations in Syria,
further evidencing the large-scale nature of these airstrikes. The UK Ministry of Defence also confirmed a joint airstrike targeting a suspected ISIS weapons facility north of Palmyra, in collaboration with French forces.
Reactions and Implications
The strikes come amidst diplomatic dialogue between the US and Syria. Reportedly, US Special Envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack, has met with Syria’s new leadership in Damascus to discuss the country's future. The discussions were said to focus on recent developments in Aleppo and the broader path forward for Syria’s historic transition.
The US-led Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, which includes Britain and France, was formed to combat the extremist group following its seizure of large areas of Iraq and Syria. This latest operation underlines the coalition's ongoing commitment to root out Islamic terrorism against our warfighters, prevent future attacks, and protect American and partner forces in the region,
as stated by CENTCOM.
Current Status
The operation marks an escalation in US military action against ISIS in Syria, underlining Washington's commitment to countering the extremist organization. While the aftermath of the strikes is still being assessed, initial indications suggest successful hits on the targeted locations. It remains to be seen how this will impact the broader fight against ISIS and the stability in the region.