DefenseU.S. forces strike over 70 ISIS targets in central Syria
U.S. and Jordanian forces conducted strikes against more than 70 targets across central Syria on December 19, deploying precision munitions against identified ISIS infrastructure and weapons sites.
The strikes were initiated as part of Operation Hawkeye Strike at 4 pm ET, following the Dec. 13 attack targeting U.S. and partner forces. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery were involved in the coordinated operation.
“This operation is critical to preventing ISIS from inspiring terrorist plots and attacks against the U.S. homeland,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM.
U.S. F-15 and A-10 aircraft, supported by Jordanian fighter jets, executed the air campaign with additional support from Apache helicopters and HIMARS rocket systems. Over 100 precision munitions were used to engage ISIS positions, according to U.S. officials.
“ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites” were the primary focus of the operation, said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. He added, “This is not the beginning of a war — it is a declaration of vengeance.”
Previous U.S. operations against ISIS in Syria have involved both unilateral and coalition efforts, aiming to degrade the group’s operational capacity since 2014. Jordan has provided ongoing support in regional security operations, including joint air campaigns.
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