US and allied forces carried out large-scale strikes against Islamic State targets across Syria on Saturday, US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced, describing the operation as a direct response to a deadly ISIS attack last month that killed three Americans.
CENTCOM said the strikes were carried out around 12.30 pm local time by US forces working alongside partner nations, hitting multiple ISIS targets across the country.
The operation was conducted under Operation Hawkeye Strike, which was launched on December 19, 2025, at the direction of President Donald Trump. The campaign followed an ISIS ambush on December 13 in Palmyra, Syria, that targeted US and Syrian forces.
The Palmyra attack resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers, Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, of Des Moines, Iowa, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, of Marshalltown, Iowa, as well as civilian interpreter Ayad Mansoor Sakat.
Three other Iowa National Guard members were injured. It was the first deadly attack on US personnel in Syria since the overthrow of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
CENTCOM said in it’s statement: “The strikes today targeted ISIS throughout Syria” and emphasized that the operation was launched “in direct response to the deadly ISIS attack on US and Syrian forces in Palmyra, Syria.”
“Our message remains strong: if you harm our warfighters, we will find you and kill you anywhere in the world, no matter how hard you try to evade justice,” the statement added.
The military said the strikes reflect an ongoing effort to counter Islamic terrorism, prevent future attacks, and protect US and partner forces in the region. CENTCOM emphasized that US and coalition forces remain determined to pursue those responsible.
Operation Hawkeye Strike began on December 19 with a large-scale strike that hit roughly 70 ISIS targets across central Syria. The United States and Jordan also carried out previous strikes under the same operation last month.
A day before Saturday’s strikes, Syrian authorities announced the arrest of the military leader responsible for ISIS operations in the Levant.
At TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and...
Read MoreAt TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and passionate writers tirelessly sifts through the vast tapestry of global events to bring you the latest news and diverse perspectives round the clock. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy, depth, and timeliness, we strive to keep you informed about the ever-evolving world, delivering a nuanced understanding of international affairs to our readers. Join us on a journey across continents as we unravel the stories that shape our interconnected world.
Read Less