The United States conducted a significant strike against ISIS militants following a deadly attack that claimed the lives of three Americans. The strike, involving fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery, targeted over 70 locations across central Syria. President Donald Trump confirmed the operation, stating that the Syrian government fully supported the retaliation against the terrorists responsible for the attack.
The strike was in response to the ambush that resulted in the deaths of two US soldiers and an interpreter at the hands of an ISIS gunman. The operation, named Hawkeye Strike, was initiated by the US government at 4pm ET on Friday. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that the action was not the start of a war but a declaration of retribution against those who harm Americans.
Hegseth’s statement conveyed a stern warning to ISIS, highlighting the US’s commitment to protecting its citizens worldwide. The US has strengthened its ties with the Syrian government following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. President Trump praised Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, affirming that the strikes were aimed at ISIS targets and not Syrian civilians.
In response to the recent attack, President Trump vowed severe retaliation against ISIS, emphasizing the group’s responsibility for the violence. He commended the efforts to eliminate ISIS strongholds in Syria, expressing hope for a brighter future once the threat is eradicated.
The US soldiers killed in the attack were identified as Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, along with civilian interpreter Ayad Mansoor Sakat. The incident near Palmyra resulted in injuries to three US troops and Syrian security personnel, with the assailant also being killed.
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