US Launches ‘Operation Hawkeye Strike’ in Syria, Targets ISIS After Killing of American Soldiers
US Launches Operation Hawkeye Strike, Targets Dozens of ISIS Positions in Syria: The United States military has launched a large-scale air and artillery operation against dozens of Islamic State (ISIS) targets in Syria, marking a significant escalation in its campaign against the terror group. The ongoing operation, named “Operation Hawkeye Strike,” comes just days after American soldiers were killed in an ISIS attack.
US President Donald Trump described the military action as “bloody revenge,” stating that the strikes were aimed at ensuring ISIS does not regain strength in the region. Notably, the operation was launched a day after the US lifted all sanctions on Syria, a move that was welcomed by the Syrian government, which has reportedly expressed support for the current action against ISIS.
Why the US Struck Syria
The strikes were carried out in response to a deadly ISIS attack in Palmyra on December 13, in which two American soldiers and three American civilians, including a civilian translator, were killed. According to US officials, the operation is a direct act of retaliation for the attack and is intended to weaken ISIS’s operational capabilities in central Syria.
The name Operation Hawkeye Strike honors the US state of Iowa—known as the Hawkeye State—which is the home state of one of the fallen soldiers.
US Defense Secretary Confirms Operation
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the strikes through a social media post, stating that US forces targeted ISIS fighters, weapons depots, and infrastructure. He emphasized that the action was not the beginning of a broader war but a focused response to the attack on American personnel.
“This is not the start of a war; it is a declaration of revenge,” Hegseth said, adding that the US would not hesitate to act when its citizens and forces are targeted.
Use of Air Power and Regional Support
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the operation involved fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery. More than 100 precision-guided munitions were reportedly used to strike over 70 suspected ISIS locations, including weapons storage facilities and operational buildings in central Syria.
Jordan also participated in the operation, with its air force providing support to the US-led strikes. The attacks reportedly lasted several hours and continued late into the night.
Trump Calls Operation a Success
President Trump later posted on Truth Social, calling the strikes “very serious revenge” against what he described as “bloodthirsty terrorists.” He claimed the operation had the backing of Syria’s new government and termed it a “major success,” vowing that ISIS would not be allowed to re-emerge.
The operation underscores Washington’s continued commitment to counterterrorism in the region and signals a strong warning to groups targeting American forces and civilians abroad.
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