The United States has initiated a significant military operation against Islamic State (ISIS) militants in Syria, following a deadly attack that claimed the lives of three American citizens earlier this month.
A Declaration of Vengeance
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the "large-scale" strikes, which targeted approximately 70 sites across central Syria. The operation, described as a move to "eliminate ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites," was launched on Friday, 19 December 2025.
In a statement posted on social media, Hegseth framed the action as a direct response to aggression. "This is not the beginning of a war - it is a declaration of vengeance," he stated. "The United States of America, under President Trump's leadership, will never hesitate and never relent to defend our people."
The Attack That Prompted Retaliation
The military action comes just days after a tragic incident in the Syrian desert on 13 December 2025. That attack resulted in the deaths of three US citizens: two National Guard members and a civilian interpreter. A Pentagon spokesperson confirmed that three other US personnel were wounded.
President Donald Trump personally addressed the killings, blaming Islamic State fighters. On his Truth Social platform, he wrote: "Because of ISIS's vicious killing of brave American Patriots in Syria... I am hereby announcing that the United States is inflicting very serious retaliation, just as I promised, on the murderous terrorists responsible."
The President had earlier presided over a dignified ceremony at Dover Air Force Base to receive the remains of the fallen Americans.
Scope and Support of the Operation
According to a US official speaking anonymously to The Associated Press, the strikes were conducted using a combination of F-15 Eagle jets, A-10 Thunderbolt ground attack aircraft, and AH-64 Apache helicopters. The official indicated that further strikes should be anticipated.
In his communications, President Trump asserted that the Syrian government was "fully supportive" of the US action against ISIS. He issued a stark warning to the militant group, declaring that its fighters "will be hit harder than you have ever been hit before." The President also expressed a belief in a potential "bright future" for Syria if ISIS can be eradicated.
The situation remains fluid, with US officials signalling a continued commitment to targeting Islamic State strongholds in the region in response to threats against American personnel.
