US Military Strikes Islamic State Group Targets in Syria
The US military, alongside its partner forces, has launched extensive strikes targeting the Islamic State (IS) group in Syria, according to a recent announcement by the US Central Command (Centcom). President Donald Trump ordered these strikes on Saturday as part of Operation Hawkeye Strike, responding to a deadly attack carried out by the IS group on US forces on December 13.
Objectives of the Military Strikes
The primary goals of these military actions include:
– Combating terrorism: The strikes aim to dismantle IS operations and infrastructure.
– Protecting US and partner forces: Ensuring the safety and security of personnel in the region is paramount.
Centcom emphasized, “Our message remains strong: if you harm our warfighters, we will find you and kill you anywhere in the world, no matter how hard you try to evade justice.”
Strike Details
– Precision Munitions: More than 90 precision munitions were deployed against over 35 targets.
– Aircraft Involved: The operation utilized over 20 aircraft, including:
– F-15Es
– A-10s
– AC-130Js
– MQ-9s
– Jordanian F-16s
– Operational Impact: The exact locations of the strikes and any resultant casualties are still being assessed.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth remarked on X, “We will never forget, and never relent,” highlighting the administration’s commitment to accountability for the attacks on US personnel.
Background of Operation Hawkeye Strike
Operation Hawkeye Strike was initiated in December following an ambush by an IS gunman that led to the deaths of two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter in Palmyra. As Hegseth stated during the operation’s announcement, “This is not the beginning of a war – it is a declaration of vengeance.” Under President Trump’s leadership, the US administration pledges to protect its citizens and undertake necessary military actions.
Before the latest strikes, US forces had successfully killed or captured nearly 25 IS members during 11 missions between December 20 and December 29 as part of Operation Hawkeye Strike. Notably, the first mission on December 19 involved a significant strike, where US and Jordanian forces targeted over 70 locations in central Syria, employing more than 100 precision munitions against IS infrastructure and weapons sites.
Conclusion
The recent US military strikes against the Islamic State group in Syria underscore a robust commitment to countering terrorism and ensuring the safety of American forces abroad. As the situation evolves, the US remains vigilant in its pursuit of justice and security in the region.