The United States military launched another precision strike in Syria on Friday. This operation successfully eliminated a senior militant commander directly linked to last month's deadly ambush against American personnel. According to US officials, this marks the third retaliatory action taken by Washington in response to the attack.
Key Militant Leader Neutralized
US Central Command confirmed the strike occurred in northwest Syria. The target was Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, a figure affiliated with Al-Qaeda. He maintained operational ties to the Islamic State militant responsible for the December 13 ambush. That attack tragically killed two US soldiers, Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar and Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard. A civilian interpreter, Ayad Mansoor Sakat, also lost his life.
A Clear Message from US Command
"The death of a terrorist operative linked to the deaths of three Americans demonstrates our resolve in pursuing terrorists who attack our forces," stated CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper. He emphasized a firm stance in his official statement. "There is no safe place for those who conduct, plot, or inspire attacks on American citizens and our warfighters. We will find you."
Part of a Broader Campaign
This latest strike forms part of a wider US military campaign. President Donald Trump ordered this initiative following the December ambush. The campaign specifically aims to target what the President described as "ISIS thugs." These elements are reportedly seeking to regroup after the ouster of former Syrian leader Bashar Assad last year.
President Trump has noted that Syrian forces are now operating alongside US troops. This collaboration occurs as Washington expands its cooperation with regional partners. These efforts fall under the US-led coalition against the Islamic State group.
Regional Reactions and Operation Details
The President also commented on the regional response. He stated that Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa was "extremely angry and disturbed by this attack."
CENTCOM provided further details on the ongoing mission. The operation, codenamed "Hawkeye Strike," involves the United States and partner nations. Key partners include Jordan and Syria. So far, the campaign has successfully targeted more than 100 Islamic State infrastructure sites and weapons caches.
This sustained military action underscores the US commitment to counterterrorism in the region. It signals a continued effort to prevent future attacks on American personnel and interests abroad.
