Following the deaths of three Americans in the Palmira region one week prior, President Donald Trump has authorized a large-scale offensive against the Islamic State in Syria. The operation, dubbed ‘Occhio di falco’ (Hawk Eye), involved strikes against over 70 ISIS targets, according to the U.S. Central Command (Centcom).
President Trump described the military action as “a very strong retaliation,” and warned that anyone who attacks or threatens the United States “will be hit harder than ever before.” The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that at least five ISIS members were killed in the strikes, including the leader of a cell responsible for drone use.
Syrian Government Support
The strikes, carried out with fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery, targeted jihadist cells in the Badia desert, including the provinces of Homs, Deir az Zor, and Raqqa. Most targets were located in a mountainous area north of Palmira. President Trump stated the action has the support of the Syrian government. Jordanian jets also participated as part of the international coalition against ISIS, which recently included Syria under the leadership of Ahmed al-Sharaa.
President al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, visited the White House in early November following a process that led to the removal of sanctions against Syria. The Palmira incident marks the first of its kind since forces led by al-Sharaa ousted the government of Bashar al-Assad and re-established relations with Washington.
The ‘Occhio di falco’ operation followed the December 12th attack in Palmira, where a sniper affiliated with ISIS killed two U.S. soldiers and a civilian interpreter. Syrian authorities have arrested several security force members suspected of ties to the attacker.
Following the incident, President Trump promised a “strong” response and received the remains of the three Americans at Dover Air Force Base. The current operation represents one of the largest military actions against ISIS in recent months, accompanied by increased U.S. troop movements in the northeast of the country. This could indicate a continued strategic focus on regional stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the U.S. military operation in Syria?
The operation followed an attack on December 12th in Palmira, where an ISIS-affiliated sniper killed two U.S. soldiers and a civilian interpreter.
Which countries participated in the ‘Occhio di falco’ operation?
The United States and Jordan participated in the operation, with the support of the Syrian government. Syria, under the leadership of Ahmed al-Sharaa, is now part of the international coalition against ISIS.
What was President Trump’s response to the attack in Palmira?
President Trump promised a “strong” response and warned that anyone who attacks or threatens the United States “will be hit harder than ever before.”
Given the recent shifts in regional alliances and the ongoing instability, what further steps might be taken to address the threat of ISIS in Syria?
