The U.S. military conducted large-scale aerial strikes across central Syria on December 20, 2025, targeting Islamic State positions in response to a deadly attack that killed two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter earlier this month. The operation marks the first major counterterrorism action in the region this year.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed via social media that 'OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE' successfully hit dozens of jihadist targets including weapons depots and operational centers. The December 13 ambush near Palmyra's ancient ruins had been claimed by Islamic State affiliates through encrypted channels, according to regional security analysts.
While Syrian state media condemned the strikes as 'violations of sovereignty,' Pentagon officials emphasized the mission's focus on preventing future attacks against coalition forces. The escalation comes as Middle Eastern governments prepare for next month's regional security summit in Doha, where counterterrorism coordination will be a key agenda item.
