US Conducts New Attacks Against ISIL in Syria Following Ambush

US Conducts New Strikes Against ISIL in Syria

The United States has launched a new series of airstrikes against the ISIL group in Syria, according to a statement from the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The strikes occurred on Saturday at approximately 17:30 GMT and targeted multiple ISIS locations across the country.

According to CENTCOM, the attacks were carried out alongside partner forces, but the specific forces involved have not been disclosed. Grainy aerial footage posted on X shows separate explosions in rural areas.

The US military stated that the response was in retaliation for an ISIL ambush that killed three American personnel and a civilian interpreter in Palmyra last month. CENTCOM emphasized that any harm to its warfighters would be met with swift action, regardless of location.

The strikes are part of Operation Hawkeye Strike, which was launched on December 19. The operation targeted 70 locations across central Syria with ISIL infrastructure and weapons. Since the launch, US forces have reported killing or capturing approximately 25 ISIL fighters.

Syria has been a key partner in the global coalition against ISIL, following an agreement reached late last year between Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and US officials. The country joined the coalition after visiting the White House.

Source: Al Jazeera