Two U.S. service members and one civilian killed in ISIS ambush in Syria

TAMPA, Fla. – December 13, 2025 – In a tragic incident in Syria, two U.S. service members and one U.S. civilian were killed during an ambush by a lone gunman affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS). The attack occurred on December 13, 2025, and resulted in injuries to three additional service members. The assailant was subsequently engaged and killed by U.S. forces.

Key Details

The ambush took place in Syria, a country that has been a focal point of U.S. military operations against ISIS since the rise of the terrorist group in the region. The identities of the deceased service members are being withheld in accordance with Department of War policy, which mandates that next of kin must be notified before any public disclosure. This policy is in place to respect the families of those affected by such tragic events.

As reported by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the ambush highlights the ongoing risks faced by U.S. personnel stationed in Syria, where they are involved in operations aimed at combating ISIS and supporting local forces. The three injured service members are currently receiving medical care, and further updates regarding their conditions are expected to be released as more information becomes available.

In a statement regarding the incident, CENTCOM emphasized the commitment of U.S. forces to maintain security and stability in the region, despite the persistent threat posed by ISIS. The group has continued to carry out attacks against both military and civilian targets, underscoring the volatile security situation in Syria.

Background

The United States has been involved in military operations in Syria since 2014, primarily aimed at dismantling the capabilities of ISIS, which at its peak controlled large swathes of territory in both Syria and Iraq. The U.S. military presence in the region has been part of a broader coalition effort to defeat ISIS and assist local forces, including the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), in stabilizing areas liberated from ISIS control.

Recent developments in the region have included ongoing negotiations and tensions between various factions, including demands from the Syrian government for the SDF to integrate into the Syrian Army. These dynamics further complicate the security landscape and the mission of U.S. forces in the area.

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What"s Next

Following this ambush, U.S. Central Command is expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack. The incident may prompt discussions regarding the safety protocols and operational strategies employed by U.S. forces in Syria. As previously reported, the situation in Syria remains fluid, with ongoing threats from ISIS and other militant groups.

In light of this incident, it is crucial for U.S. military leadership to reassess the risks faced by personnel deployed in the region and to ensure that adequate measures are in place to protect them. The U.S. government has reiterated its commitment to combating terrorism and supporting regional allies, but incidents like this underscore the challenges that lie ahead.

For more information on related coverage, see Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirms attacker killed by partner forces and [Video] US patrol attacked in Palmyra; 4 soldiers and 2 fighters wounded.