U.S. Military Action in Syria
American military forces have initiated airstrikes targeting ISIS positions in Syria, according to multiple sources. This action comes as a direct response to a recent attack that resulted in the deaths of two U.S. soldiers and an interpreter.
Officials reported that dozens of targets across central Syria were struck using various military assets including fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery. U.S. Central Command characterized the operation as a "massive strike" and confirmed its retaliatory nature in a social media statement.
Background of the Attack
The incident prompting this response occurred last Saturday when an ISIS gunman ambushed American personnel in Palmyra, Syria. The attack claimed the lives of Sergeant William Howard, Sergeant Edgar Torres Tovar, both from the Iowa National Guard, and interpreter Ayad Mansoor Sakat. Three other Iowa National Guard members sustained injuries during the assault.
Earlier this week, President Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth participated in a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base to honor the fallen service members.
Official Statements and Operation Details
Following the attack, President Trump pledged "very serious retaliation" in a social media post. Defense Secretary Hegseth similarly vowed to "avenge these fallen Americans with overwhelming force."
On Friday, Hegseth announced the commencement of "Operation Hawkeye Strike" in Syria, describing it as an effort "to eliminate ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites in direct response to the attack on U.S. forces."
"Today, we hunted and we killed our enemies," Hegseth continued. "Lots of them. And we will continue."
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated after the operation began, "President Trump told the world that the United States would retaliate for the killing of our heroes by ISIS in Syria, and he is delivering on that promise."
This is a developing story and will be updated.
