By: The Trek News Desk
The United States, along with its allied forces, has carried out extensive military strikes targeting Islamic State (IS) positions in Syria. According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the operation was conducted under Operation Hawkeye Strike on the direct orders of President Donald Trump.
CENTCOM stated that the strikes were launched in response to a deadly attack on US forces in Syria on December 13, which resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers and one civilian interpreter. The primary objective of the operation is to curb terrorist activities in the region and ensure the safety of US and partner forces.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), CENTCOM said, “Our message is clear: if our service members are harmed, we will track down those responsible and eliminate them anywhere in the world.”
Over 90 Precision-Guided Weapons Used
According to officials, more than 20 military aircraft were involved in the operation, striking over 35 targets using upwards of 90 precision-guided munitions. The mission included aircraft such as F-15E fighter jets, A-10 attack planes, AC-130J gunships, MQ-9 drones, and Jordanian F-16s.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the exact locations of the strikes or confirmed casualty figures.
Strong Warning from US Defence Secretary
Reacting to the military action, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said, “We will neither forget nor back down.” He reiterated that the operation does not signal the start of a new war but represents firm retaliation for attacks on American personnel and civilians.
Series of Earlier Operations
CENTCOM revealed that between December 20 and December 29, nearly 25 IS militants were either killed or captured during 11 separate missions under Operation Hawkeye Strike. Earlier, on December 19, US and Jordanian forces conducted a large-scale assault on more than 70 IS targets across central Syria, deploying over 100 precision weapons.
Syria’s Fragile Situation Continues
Syria remains politically unstable following the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December 2024, which brought an end to a 13-year-long civil war. Rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, is currently leading the country.
While the Islamic State has been significantly weakened in Syria, the group continues to operate, particularly targeting Kurdish-led forces in the northeastern regions throughout 2025.
Source: News Agencies
