Picture courtesy of Shafaq News

 

The United States has launched a series of airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria following a brutal attack that resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers and a US interpreter. US Central Command labelled the strike as "massive," marking a fierce retaliatory response after the incident in Palmyra, Syria. Fighter jets, helicopters, and artillery were deployed to target multiple locations across central Syria.

 

Last Saturday, a lone ISIS gunman ambushed a group supporting a key leader in Palmyra. The attack claimed the lives of Sgt. William Howard and Sgt. Edgar Torres Tovar, both of the Iowa National Guard, alongside interpreter Ayad Mansoor Sakat. Three other National Guard members sustained injuries in the assault. President Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth were present for the dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base to honour the fallen.

 

President Trump expressed intentions to retaliate with "grave" force. The US military operation dubbed "Operation Hawkeye Strike" aims to dismantle ISIS infrastructure and fighter positions. Defence Secretary Hegseth stated, "Today, we hunted and we killed our enemies. We have successfully eliminated numerous adversaries. And we will continue." The strike represents a comprehensive attack against ISIS capabilities.

 

White House spokesperson Anna Kelly confirmed the US's commitment to action. In a statement, she reiterated the President's promise to exact retribution for the deaths of the American heroes. The US's decisive military response underscores its stance against terrorism and its resolve to protect its forces, reported CBS News.

 

 

Key Takeaways

• US airstrikes hit ISIS following an attack on American forces in Syria.
• President Trump pledged strong retaliation, resulting in "Operation Hawkeye Strike."
• The military response aims to dismantle ISIS fighters and infrastructure.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from CBS News 2025-12-20

 

 

 

What are the Yanks doing there anyway? If they weren't there, they might not have been killed. Oh wait, they live in the US. Well, equal chances of being shot.