American military forces conducted a sweeping operation against Islamic State positions in Syria, striking 70 targets linked to terrorist infrastructure. The action followed a deadly attack that killed US soldiers and civilian personnel, prompting swift and comprehensive retaliation.
Saturday’s attack in Palmyra resulted in the deaths of two Army soldiers and a civilian interpreter who were supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, the international mission combating ISIS. Three additional Americans were wounded when an assailant with suspected ISIS sympathies attacked their convoy. The attacker, a Syrian security force member, was killed during the incident that highlighted continuing terrorist threats in the region.
The response operation targeted critical ISIS capabilities across central Syria, hitting weapons depots, training facilities, and command centers. Military officials characterized the strikes as “large-scale” and indicated they were designed to significantly degrade terrorist operational capacity. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth framed the operation as American resolve in protecting its people, stating the country would continue hunting ISIS fighters without hesitation.
President Trump defended the military action as necessary response to ISIS aggression against American personnel. He expressed optimism about Syria’s potential for positive change under new leadership, noting President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s support for counter-terrorism operations. The cooperation between Washington and Damascus represents a notable development in bilateral relations following years of tension during Assad’s rule.
Syria’s transition from authoritarian rule to new governance has created opportunities for enhanced security cooperation. The current government includes former opposition fighters experienced in combating both Assad’s forces and ISIS, bringing practical knowledge to counter-terrorism efforts. While discussions continue about American troop reductions in Syria, current operations demonstrate sustained commitment to preventing ISIS resurgence. US forces remain positioned at multiple locations throughout the country, maintaining pressure on terrorist networks while supporting local and international partners. Syria’s foreign ministry has pledged to prevent ISIS from establishing safe havens, affirming shared counter-terrorism objectives with international partners.