The US and its allies launched a series of large-scale strikes against Islamic State positions in Syria on Saturday, signaling a swift response to a deadly attack last month that claimed the lives of three Americans.
The strikes, described by US military officials as significant, targeted multiple ISIS sites across the country.
Remembering the Palmyra Attack
The operation comes after a December 13 attack in the historic city of Palmyra, known for its UNESCO-listed ancient ruins and its past under jihadist control.
A lone gunman from ISIS killed two US soldiers and a US civilian interpreter during the incident.
US officials stressed that the strikes were a direct answer to this tragic event, aiming to disrupt ISIS operations in the region.
Operation Hawkeye Strike
Dubbed Operation Hawkeye Strike, the military campaign involved coordinated efforts by US and allied forces, including Jordan.
A statement from US Central Command explained that the strikes were carried out “in direct response to the deadly ISIS attack on US and Syrian forces in Palmyra,” targeting the militant group across Syria.
This follows a previous round of attacks earlier in December, which hit dozens of ISIS targets.
ISIS Resilience in Syria
The Palmyra attack marked a sobering reminder that ISIS remains a threat in Syria, even after their territorial defeat.
The extremist group had seized large swathes of Syria and Iraq in 2014 but was ultimately pushed back by local forces supported by international airstrikes.
However, ISIS still operates in the country’s vast desert regions, maintaining the potential for deadly attacks.
US Troop Presence and Policy
The American forces targeted were part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the international mission aimed at countering ISIS.
While the US has reduced its military footprint over the years, President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism about the ongoing presence in Syria, attempting to withdraw troops but ultimately leaving forces in place.
Earlier in the year, the Pentagon confirmed plans to cut US personnel in half, and US envoy for Syria Tom Barrack noted that Washington intends to consolidate its bases down to just one in the future.
What Lies Ahead?
While the latest strikes are a firm response to ISIS aggression, the situation in Syria remains volatile.
Analysts suggest that US and allied forces will continue monitoring the desert regions closely, aiming to prevent future attacks while managing a gradually reduced military presence.
The balance between counterterrorism efforts and troop reduction will likely define Washington’s next moves in the region.
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