U.S. Launches Large-Scale Retaliatory Strikes Against ISIS in Syria

On December 19, 2025, the U.S. military initiated Operation Hawkeye Strike, a major offensive targeting dozens of Islamic State (ISIS) positions across central Syria. The operation involved fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery delivering over 100 precision-guided munitions against more than 70 sites, including fighter positions, weapons depots, and infrastructure.

The strikes were a direct response to a December 13 ambush near Palmyra that killed two U.S. service members from the Iowa National Guard and a civilian interpreter, while wounding three others.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the action as a “declaration of vengeance,” emphasizing that it aimed to eliminate ISIS fighters and disrupt their capabilities. The Jordanian Air Force contributed to the operation with fighter aircraft support.

President Donald Trump expressed strong backing for the strikes, pledging serious retaliation against the terrorists and noting full support from Syria’s leadership in combating ISIS.

This marks one of the largest U.S.-led campaigns against ISIS remnants in Syria in recent years, intended to prevent the group’s resurgence amid ongoing regional changes following the shift in power in Damascus. Syrian authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating terrorism and denying ISIS any safe havens within the country.