Two Iowa National Guard Soldiers Killed in Syria Attack

On December 13, 2025, two Iowa Army National Guard soldiers and a U.S. civilian interpreter were killed during an attack in Palmyra, Syria. Three other Iowa National Guard soldiers sustained injuries in the incident. The attack occurred while the soldiers were conducting a key leader engagement as part of ongoing counter-ISIS and counter-terrorism operations in the region.

The names of the deceased and wounded soldiers have not been released, pending notification of their families. Approximately 1,800 Iowa Army National Guard soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, began deploying to the Middle East in late May 2025 in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the U.S. mission to advise, assist, and enable partner forces in the enduring defeat of ISIS.

President Donald Trump vowed "very serious retaliation" for the attack, stating,

"This was an ISIS attack against the U.S., and Syria, in a very dangerous part of Syria, that is not fully controlled by them."

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds expressed her condolences, saying,

"Our hearts are heavy today, and our prayers and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of our soldiers killed in action."

U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa also commented,

"Barbara and I are heartbroken by the loss of two brave Iowans on a counter-terrorism mission in Syria."

The Pentagon is investigating the incident, and further details are expected as the situation develops.