US Conducts Retaliatory Strikes on Islamic State Targets in Syria

The United States military has carried out extensive airstrikes targeting Islamic State (IS) positions across Syria. This operation is part of Operation Hawkeye Strike, initiated in response to the December 13, 2025, attack in Palmyra that resulted in the deaths of two U.S. soldiers and a civilian interpreter.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that the strikes aimed to eliminate IS fighters and infrastructure, preventing future attacks and safeguarding American and partner forces in the region. The operation involved over 20 aircraft, including F-15Es, A-10s, AC-130Js, MQ-9s, and Jordanian F-16s, which collectively deployed more than 90 precision munitions against over 35 targets.

The December 13 attack in Palmyra was carried out by a lone gunman affiliated with IS, marking the first such incident since the overthrow of Syria's former president, Bashar al-Assad, in December 2024. In response, the U.S. and its partners have conducted multiple operations, including a previous round of strikes on December 19, 2025, which targeted over 70 IS-related locations in central Syria.

The U.S. remains committed to countering IS threats and supporting regional stability through ongoing military operations and collaboration with international partners.