U.S. forces launch OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE against ISIS in Syria

On December 19, 2025, U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced the initiation of OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE in Syria. This military operation aims to eliminate ISIS fighters, their infrastructure, and weapons sites. The operation is a direct response to an attack on U.S. forces that occurred on December 13, 2025, in Palmyra, Syria. Hegseth emphasized that this action is not the beginning of a war but rather a declaration of vengeance against those who threaten American lives.

Key Details

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, representing the U.S. government, stated that the operation is a response to the attack on American personnel. The attack in Palmyra, which took place on December 13, resulted in heightened tensions and prompted the U.S. to take decisive military action. Hegseth articulated a clear message regarding the U.S. stance on international threats, asserting that the United States will not hesitate to defend its citizens, regardless of their location in the world.

In his remarks, Hegseth conveyed a strong commitment to pursuing those responsible for targeting Americans, stating, "if you target Americans — anywhere in the world — you will spend the rest of your brief, anxious life knowing the United States will hunt you, find you, and ruthlessly kill you." This statement underscores the U.S. military"s resolve to retaliate against threats posed by ISIS and similar extremist groups.

During OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE, U.S. forces reportedly engaged in combat operations that resulted in the elimination of numerous ISIS fighters. Hegseth confirmed that the operation was successful in achieving its objectives, stating, "Today, we hunted and we killed our enemies. Lots of them. And we will continue." This declaration highlights the aggressive posture the U.S. intends to maintain in the region as part of its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.

Background

The attack on December 13, which prompted this military response, reflects the ongoing volatility in Syria, where ISIS has maintained a presence despite significant territorial losses in recent years. The U.S. has been involved in various military operations in Syria since 2014, primarily aimed at dismantling ISIS and stabilizing the region. The announcement of OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE marks a continuation of this strategy under the leadership of President Trump, who has been vocal about the need for a robust military response to threats against American forces.

What"s Next

As OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE unfolds, the U.S. military is expected to maintain a heightened operational tempo in Syria, focusing on intelligence gathering and targeted strikes against ISIS remnants. The implications of this operation may extend beyond immediate military objectives, potentially affecting U.S. relations with regional allies and adversaries. The ongoing conflict in Syria remains complex, with various factions vying for control and influence, and the U.S. strategy will likely adapt in response to evolving conditions on the ground.

For more on recent developments regarding U.S. military actions in Syria, see our related coverage.