Bangkok: The US launched an operation in Syria in retaliation for a deadly Dec. 13 attack on American forces in Palmyra, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Friday.
According to Anadolu Agency, U.S. forces commenced Operation Hawkeye Strike in Syria to eliminate ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites. The operation was initiated as a direct response to the attack targeting American personnel stationed in eastern Syria. Hegseth emphasized that the action was not the beginning of a war but a declaration of vengeance, stating that the US would never hesitate to defend its people.
Hegseth reported that the US had successfully hunted and killed several individuals during the strike and indicated that further actions would continue. In a stern warning, he said that those who target Americans anywhere in the world would face inevitable and relentless retribution from the United States.
US President Donald Trump described the strikes as a very serious retaliation and a fulfillment of his promise to respond. On his Truth Social platform, Trump stated that the US was striking strongly against ISIS strongholds in Syria. He referred to Syria as a place with many problems but one with a bright future if ISIS could be eradicated. He also mentioned a dignified ceremony held earlier in the week to welcome home the remains of the fallen Americans.
Trump added that the Syrian government was fully in support of the operation and praised Syria's leader for working hard to bring greatness back to the country. He issued a warning to terrorists, stating they would be hit harder than ever if they attacked or threatened the USA.
The exact location, number of casualties, or other operational details of the American strike have not been disclosed. The deadly attack earlier this month by members of the ISIS (Daesh) terror group in central Syria resulted in the deaths of two US soldiers and a civilian.