United States launched a large-scale military offensive against ISIS positions in Syria in retaliation for the killing of three American citizens during an attack in the city of Palmyra.

The Pentagon confirmed that the operation aimed to immediately weaken the group’s command and operational capabilities and reduce the risk to U.S. personnel and interests in the region.

U.S. forces carried out precision airstrikes targeting weapons depots, command centers, and logistical hubs operated by ISIS, in coordination with local and international allies. T

hese aerial actions were followed by ground operations designed to secure the targeted areas and prevent militant regrouping. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that the operation, known as “Hawk Eye Strike,” directly responded to the attack that killed two Iowa National Guard soldiers and a U.S. interpreter.

Tonight, U.S. and Jordanian forces struck 70+ ISIS targets in Syria with 100+ precision munitions. Peace through strength. pic.twitter.com/XWWvfqBBFT

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) December 20, 2025

According to official sources cited by U.S. media, the operation unfolded in carefully planned phases. Intelligence units first identified and verified targets through aerial surveillance and ground reporting.

Air assets then conducted precision strikes, while allied ground forces moved in to isolate strategic locations and deny ISIS fighters the ability to reorganize.

The War Department’s statement

The Pentagon stated that U.S. forces employed precision technology and strict rules of engagement to minimize civilian harm.

In statements posted on X, CENTCOM emphasized that the operation did not seek to expand the conflict but to neutralize immediate threats and protect deployed U.S. troops and personnel in Syria.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth reaffirmed Washington’s resolve to respond forcefully to attacks on Americans. “If you attack Americans anywhere in the world, the United States will hunt you down, find you, and eliminate you,” he said, underscoring the administration’s hardline stance.

U.S. officials explained that the operation aligned with the national defense strategy, which authorizes limited military action abroad when direct threats to U.S. citizens or interests emerge.

President Trump expressed condolences to the victims’ families and blamed ISIS for the Palmyra attack, while questioning Syrian authorities’ ability to control extremist groups operating in the country.

Ground forces involved in the operation included allied units tasked with securing perimeters, verifying mission objectives, and gathering additional intelligence. CENTCOM warned that ISIS cells remain active in central and northeastern Syria and said it would continue monitoring the situation closely.

In a preliminary assessment, U.S. military commanders stated that further operations would depend on ongoing threat evaluations.

Washington reiterated that protecting American lives remains the central objective of its military posture in Syria, while maintaining a measured response aimed at avoiding a broader escalation.