In response to a deadly attack in Syria that resulted in the deaths of two U.S. soldiers and one civilian interpreter, the Pentagon has launched Operation Hawkeye Strike, targeting ISIS-linked sites across Syria.
Details of the Attack
On December 13, 2025, a lone gunman affiliated with the Islamic State ambushed a joint U.S.-Syrian security meeting near Palmyra, Syria. The attack resulted in the deaths of two U.S. Army soldiers and one American civilian interpreter, marking the first U.S. military casualties in Syria since the fall of the Assad regime. (time.com)
Operation Hawkeye Strike
In retaliation, the U.S. military initiated Operation Hawkeye Strike on December 19, 2025. The operation involved extensive airstrikes targeting over 70 ISIS positions across central Syria, including Deir ez-Zor, Raqqa, and areas near Palmyra. The strikes utilized F-15, F-16, A-10 aircraft, Apache helicopters, and HIMARS artillery. President Trump emphasized that the U.S. would respond forcefully to any future threats, framing the action as a retaliation rather than the start of a war. (theguardian.com)
International Reactions
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, who replaced Bashar Assad a year prior, expressed support for the U.S. response, condemning the initial ISIS attack and reaffirming Syria’s commitment to fighting terrorism. The incident underscores the challenges facing Syria’s newly rebuilt security forces, especially in areas with ISIS influence. (apnews.com)
