By: The Trek News Desk
British and French air forces have conducted a coordinated air operation against Islamic State (IS) targets in Syria, striking an underground weapons storage site linked to the extremist group. The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets took part in the mission alongside French aircraft.
According to the ministry, the site was identified through intelligence assessments and was being used to stockpile weapons and explosives. The facility was located in a mountainous area north of the historic city of Palmyra in central Syria. During the operation, RAF Typhoon FGR4 aircraft deployed Paveway IV precision-guided munitions to hit tunnel entrances and access points leading to the underground complex.
The UK Defence Ministry said early assessments suggest the strike achieved its intended objective. It also noted that there were no indications of civilian casualties, and all aircraft involved in the mission returned safely to base. The Typhoon jets were supported in-flight by a Voyager aerial refuelling tanker.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey described the strike as a clear signal against any attempt by IS to re-establish itself in the region. He said the operation highlighted Britain’s commitment to working closely with its allies to counter terrorist groups and their violent ideologies in the Middle East.
Praising the professionalism and bravery of the personnel involved, Healey added that British armed forces remain on constant readiness to protect national and international security. The Ministry of Defence noted that RAF aircraft have continued patrols over Syria since IS was defeated in the 2019 Battle of Baghuz, to prevent any resurgence of the group.
The latest strike follows similar action by the United States in December, when US forces carried out extensive air attacks on IS-linked sites in the Palmyra area after an ambush killed two American soldiers and a civilian. According to United Nations estimates, IS is believed to still have between 5,000 and 7,000 fighters operating across Syria and Iraq.
Source: News Agencies
