US Launches Major Military Strike Against ISIS in Syria

Sun Dec 21 2025 12:07:01 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In retaliation for a deadly ambush that killed American personnel, the US military executed a significant assault on ISIS targets in Syria, employing advanced tactics and international support.

The US has launched a substantial military operation against ISIS in Syria, involving airstrikes and artillery targeting over 70 locations. This follows an attack that killed two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter, prompting a strong response from President Donald Trump and US military officials. The operation, which also saw Jordanian air support, is aimed at dismantling ISIS infrastructure and preventing further threats in the region.

The US says its military has carried out a 'massive strike' against the Islamic State group (IS) in Syria, in response to a deadly attack on American forces in the country.

The US Central Command (Centcom) reported that fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery targeted more than 70 locations across central Syria, employing over 100 precision munitions aimed at IS infrastructure and weaponry.

President Donald Trump stated that they are striking very strongly against IS strongholds following the ambush on December 13 that resulted in the deaths of two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter in Palmyra.

In a statement, Centcom shared that Operation Hawkeye Strike commenced at 4 PM ET on Friday. Centcom commander Admiral Brad Cooper emphasized the US commitment to pursuing terrorists who threaten American lives and those of its allies.

Rami Abdel Rahman from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights noted that at least five IS members were confirmed dead, including a cell leader responsible for drone operations in eastern Syria's Deir ez Zor province.

The Royal Jordanian Air Force also participated in the strikes, aiming to counter extremist threats in the region, as reported by the state-run agency Petra.

No immediate comments were made by IS regarding the strikes, and the targets' validity is still subject to verification.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth characterized the operation not as the start of a war, but a declaration of vengeance, vowing that those who target Americans will face relentless pursuit.

Trump further claimed that the strikes represent serious retaliation against those responsible for the attacks, asserting that the Syrian government is in full support.

Centcom previously reported that the recent deadly strike in Palmyra involved an IS gunman who was engaged and killed, with three additional US soldiers injured. Interestingly, the attack occurred in an area reportedly lacking Syrian government control, raising questions about security forces' involvement.

The Syrian government, having recently collaborated with the US against IS, indicated it would continue to foster cooperation.

Since the last territorial defeat of IS in Syria in 2019, the group is estimated to retain between 5,000 to 7,000 fighters in Syria and Iraq, according to the United Nations.