WASHINGTON / DAMASCUS — The United States has launched a large-scale military operation against ISIL (Islamic State) targets in Syria, escalating its response after the killing of two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter near the historic city of Palmyra last week.
President Donald Trump confirmed the strikes late Monday, describing them as a decisive act of retaliation against the militant group, which continues to operate in parts of central and eastern Syria despite years of military pressure.
“Because of ISIS’s vicious killing of brave American Patriots in Syria, I am hereby announcing that the United States is inflicting very serious retaliation,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, calling the operation necessary to protect American lives and regional stability.
Operation Hawkeye Strike Launched
The military campaign, officially named Operation Hawkeye Strike, targets ISIL fighters, weapons depots, training camps, and logistical hubs across central Syria.
According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), American forces deployed fighter jets, attack helicopters, long-range artillery, and surveillance drones, releasing more than 100 precision-guided munitions over multiple ISIL-controlled areas.
CENTCOM officials said the strikes were designed to dismantle the group’s operational capability and disrupt its ability to plan future attacks against US personnel and allied forces.
Syrian Government Backs US Action
Trump stated that Syria’s new government, which took power following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in late 2024, fully supports the US-led operation.
Syria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed its cooperation, saying it welcomes assistance from the United States and coalition partners to eliminate ISIL safe havens.
“The Syrian Arab Republic remains committed to eradicating terrorist organizations that threaten national and regional security,” the ministry said in a statement.
This marks a notable shift in US-Syria coordination after years of limited engagement under the Assad government.
Defense Secretary Calls Strikes “Vengeance”
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth described the operation as a forceful response to the deaths of American service members.
“This was not symbolic,” Hegseth said. “This was a declaration of vengeance against a terrorist organization that continues to target Americans.”
He confirmed that early battle damage assessments show significant destruction of ISIL infrastructure and multiple confirmed militant casualties.
Jordan Joins Coalition Effort
The Jordanian Armed Forces participated in the operation, contributing fighter aircraft in coordinated air missions. Jordan has long played a role in counterterrorism efforts against ISIL, particularly along its northern border with Syria.
Coalition officials emphasized that the strikes were conducted in international coordination and complied with international law.
Deadly Palmyra Attack Sparked Response
The escalation follows a deadly ambush near Palmyra, where ISIL militants attacked a joint US-Syrian convoy.
Two US National Guard members and a civilian interpreter were killed, while three other American soldiers sustained injuries. The attack underscored ISIL’s continued presence in remote desert regions, where cells operate using hit-and-run tactics.
US Troop Presence Remains Limited
Approximately 1,000 US troops remain stationed in Syria, primarily focused on intelligence gathering, training local forces, and preventing ISIL from regrouping.
Pentagon officials stressed that Operation Hawkeye Strike is a targeted retaliation and not the beginning of a broader military campaign or ground invasion.
Trump’s administration has reiterated its support for Syria’s transitional government while maintaining pressure on extremist groups that threaten civilians, coalition forces, and regional stability.
