Post by : Saif Rahman

The US military has executed extensive airstrikes against Islamic State (ISIS) sites in Syria. This measure was launched following a lethal assault on American personnel this month.

Sources from the US military reported that more than 70 ISIS positions were targeted across central Syria, including fighters and weapons depots. The operation, named Operation Hawkeye Strike, aimed to dismantle critical resources used by the group for planning attacks.

The assault came after a December 13 incident in Palmyra, where two US Army soldiers and a civilian interpreter lost their lives due to an attack on an American-Syrian convoy. Additionally, three other US soldiers sustained injuries before the assailant was neutralized by security forces.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that the military action was a direct reaction to the fatalities. He indicated that the intention was to deliver a strong message to ISIS regarding the consequences of attacking US forces.

“This was a significant response,” Hegseth remarked. “Our efforts targeted ISIS fighters, arms, and their logistical bases.”

The operation featured collaboration among US fighter jets, attack helicopters, and long-range rocket systems, with Jordanian aircraft also participating, showcasing regional solidarity in combating ISIS.

President Donald Trump stated that the airstrikes achieved their objective, inflicting substantial damage on ISIS structures. Speaking at a rally, he underscored that the US dealt a strong counterstrike against the militants responsible for the coalition forces' attack.

Trump added that the Syrian government endorsed the US action against ISIS, aiming to safeguard American forces and deter future aggressions.

US Central Command affirmed that the strikes were meticulously planned to minimize civilian impact, focusing strictly on established ISIS positions in isolated areas.

Syria's foreign ministry reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating ISIS and preventing the group from gaining a foothold within its territory. Officials stated their continued collaboration with the US-led coalition against terrorism.

The Syrian Interior Ministry indicated that the Palmyra assailant was believed to have ties to ISIS and may have received support from local security elements, with ongoing investigations ongoing.

Approximately 1,000 US troops remain in Syria, primarily tasked with preventing ISIS from regaining strength after losing significant territory in recent years.

Even though ISIS's territorial control has drastically waned, the group continues its operations through smaller cells. US officials caution that the threat remains potent and requires continuous vigilance.

The recent airstrikes underscore Washington's commitment to safeguarding its personnel while applying pressure on ISIS. However, officials acknowledged the ongoing nature of the battle against this extremist organization.

#Global News