DAMASCUS — December 28, 2025
The United States and Jordan conducted large-scale joint airstrikes on more than 70 Islamic State (ISIS) targets across central Syria on December 28, 2025, as part of Operation Hawkeye Strike.
The operation served as direct retaliation for a December 13 ambush near the ancient city of Palmyra, where a lone gunman—suspected of ISIS affiliation and a member of Syrian security forces—killed two US soldiers from the Iowa National Guard and a civilian interpreter, while wounding others. The attacker was killed at the scene.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that American forces deployed fighter jets, attack helicopters, artillery, and over 100 precision munitions against ISIS command centers, weapons depots, training facilities, drone sites, and logistical hubs in provinces including Homs, Raqqa, and Deir ez-Zor. Jordanian fighter aircraft provided support, underscoring ongoing bilateral counter-terrorism efforts.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported at least five ISIS operatives killed, including a drone cell leader. No US or Jordanian casualties were reported.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the strikes as a “declaration of vengeance” aimed at eliminating ISIS fighters and disrupting rebuilding efforts. President Donald Trump called the operation “very successful,” targeting remnants seeking to regroup despite prior territorial defeats.
Jordan stated the strikes prevented extremist groups from using Syrian areas as launchpads to threaten regional security. Syrian authorities reaffirmed their commitment to combating ISIS and denying safe havens.
