US Conducts Extensive Airstrikes on ISIS Targets in Syria Following Deadly Attack

On December 19, 2025, the United States initiated Operation Hawkeye Strike, conducting extensive airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria. This action was in direct response to a December 13 attack in Palmyra that resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that the operation commenced at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time and involved fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery, with support from Jordanian aircraft. More than 70 targets across central Syria were struck, utilizing over 100 precision munitions aimed at ISIS infrastructure and weapons sites.

President Donald Trump stated that the strikes were a "very serious retaliation" against the terrorists responsible for the earlier attack. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the U.S. commitment to defending its personnel, declaring, "This is not the beginning of a war—it is a declaration of vengeance."

The December 13 attack in Palmyra targeted a joint patrol of U.S. and Syrian forces. The assailant, identified as a member of Syria's internal security forces with suspected ISIS affiliations, was killed during the incident. Three additional U.S. soldiers and two Syrian personnel were injured.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa condemned the attack and expressed support for the U.S. response. The Syrian government reiterated its commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring that ISIS has "no safe havens on Syrian territory."

Operation Hawkeye Strike marks one of the most significant U.S. military actions against ISIS in recent years, underscoring the ongoing threat posed by the group despite its territorial losses. CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper affirmed the U.S. resolve, stating, "We will continue to relentlessly pursue terrorists who seek to harm Americans and our partners across the region."