United States Launches Strikes on IS Base In Syria

The United States, in close coordination with allied forces, has launched a series of significant military strikes targeting Islamic State (ISIS) strongholds and infrastructure across Syria. The operations were aimed at countering terrorist activity and ensuring the safety of American and partner forces in the region. In recent weeks, increased ISIS activity, including attacks on US personnel, has underscored the urgency and strategic importance of these operations.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes were carried out on a Saturday under the direct instruction of President Donald Trump, as part of “Operation Hawk Eye Strike.” The operation was initiated in response to a deadly ISIS attack on US forces in Syria on 13 December, which resulted in casualties among American soldiers and a civilian interpreter. CENTCOM emphasised that the United States’ message is clear: any attack on US personnel will be met with decisive and uncompromising retaliation.

A senior official, speaking to CBS News, a partner of the BBC, revealed that over 20 combat and surveillance aircraft participated in the mission. More than 90 precision-guided munitions were deployed against over 35 designated targets. The aircraft involved included F-15E and A-10 fighter jets, AC-130J gunships, MQ-9 drones, and Jordanian F-16s.

While exact casualty figures and specific locations of the strikes have not been publicly disclosed, the primary targets included ISIS command centres, weapons depots, and logistical hubs. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated via social media that the United States will neither forget such attacks nor halt its efforts to neutralise threats.

Operation Hawk Eye Strike was first announced by the Trump administration in December, following an incident in Palmyra, central Syria, where an ISIS gunman killed two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter. Between 20 and 29 December, CENTCOM reported that nearly 25 ISIS fighters were killed or captured across 11 separate missions. The first major joint strike took place on 19 December, when US and Jordanian forces targeted over 70 ISIS positions in central Syria, deploying more than 100 precision-guided munitions.

The following table summarises the main aspects of Operation Hawk Eye Strike:

Analysts note that these operations reflect the US government’s firm commitment to preventing a resurgence of ISIS in Syria. The strikes also send a strong signal to terrorist organisations across the region that the United States and its allies will not compromise on security matters.