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American forces strike over 70 ISIS sites in central Syria following deadly attack on US troops, marking a swift and forceful response under the Trump administration.
United States military forces carried out a large-scale operation against Islamic State targets in Syria on Friday, hitting more than 70 locations across central Syria in direct retaliation for a December 13 attack that killed two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter.
A U.S. Army M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is loaded onto a C-17 Globemaster III in the Middle East on December 19, 2025, in support of Operation Hawkeye Strike. (Image via @sentdefender on X / OSINTdefender)
The operation, dubbed Operation Hawkeye Strike, involved fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery delivering over 100 precision munitions on ISIS infrastructure, weapons storage sites, and fighter positions. U.S. Central Command described the action as a “massive strike,” emphasizing its role in degrading the group’s capabilities.
🚨 HOLY SMOKES! The US has struck over 70 ISIS TARGETS in Syria, achieving revenge for their ambush of our troops
"If you harm or threaten any American, especially our servicemen, President Trump will hit you harder than you have ever been hit before." 🇺🇸pic.twitter.com/BUdCCuZ6v5
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) December 20, 2025
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the strikes in a statement on X, framing them as a necessary response to protect American personnel. Reports from multiple outlets confirmed the involvement of F-15 and F-16 fighter jets, A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft, Apache helicopters, and contributions from Jordanian air forces.
The strikes focused on areas around Palmyra, Deir ez-Zur, and the eastern Raqqa desert, where ISIS remnants have maintained pockets of activity despite the group’s territorial defeat years earlier. Officials noted that intelligence gathered from recent raids helped identify the targets.
This is not the beginning of a war — it is a declaration of vengeance. The United States of America, under President Trump’s leadership, will never hesitate and never relent to defend our people.
Syrian state media reported explosions in affected areas, while local sources noted activity near known ISIS strongholds. No immediate casualty figures from the ISIS side were officially released, though Hegseth indicated significant enemy losses.
Illustration of U.S. CENTCOM broad military operation against ISIS sites in central Syria as part of Operation Hawkeye Strike. (Image via @OsiOsint1 on X)
The operation’s name appears to nod to Iowa, known as the Hawkeye State, home to the fallen National Guard soldiers. White House officials reiterated Trump’s promise to deliver on threats against those targeting Americans.
Hegseth’s words underscored the administration’s stance, echoing earlier vows from President Donald Trump for serious retaliation after the Palmyra incident. The attack on December 13 targeted Iowa National Guard members and a civilian during operations in the Syrian desert, which U.S. officials attributed to ISIS.
The Path to Retaliation
In the week following the deadly ambush, U.S. and partner forces conducted 10 operations across Syria and Iraq, resulting in the death or detention of around 23 suspected ISIS operatives. These efforts provided critical intelligence that shaped Friday’s broader assault.
A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle takes off for a mission. (Public domain image via @usairforce on X)
CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper highlighted the operation’s importance in preventing ISIS from regrouping or inspiring attacks on the U.S. homeland. Hundreds of American troops remain deployed in Syria as part of the ongoing mission to counter the group, a commitment dating back to the height of ISIS territorial control in the mid-2010s.
Syrian state media reported explosions in affected areas, while local sources noted activity near known ISIS strongholds. No immediate casualty figures from the ISIS side were officially released, though Hegseth indicated significant enemy losses.
The operation’s name appears to nod to Iowa, known as the Hawkeye State, home to the fallen National Guard soldiers. White House officials reiterated Trump’s promise to deliver on threats against those targeting Americans.
Ongoing Mission Against ISIS Remnants
Despite the collapse of the ISIS caliphate, remnants continue to pose threats through insurgent activities in Syria and Iraq. The U.S. maintains a presence alongside local partners to prevent resurgence, with recent regime changes in Syria aiding cooperation in some areas.
Friday’s strikes represent one of the most extensive single-day actions against ISIS in recent years, signaling continued vigilance. Congressional leaders were briefed, and reactions from Iowa lawmakers emphasized support for the troops and the response.
As details emerge, the operation underscores the persistent challenges in the region and the U.S. commitment to counterterrorism efforts. Further updates from CENTCOM are expected as assessments continue.
The strikes come amid broader geopolitical dynamics, with U.S. forces navigating complex alliances and threats in the Middle East. Operation Hawkeye Strike serves as a clear message that attacks on American personnel will meet with decisive action.
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