US Launches Deadly Retaliatory Strike in Syria, Kills Al-Qaeda Leader Linked to IS Ambush
US kills Al-Qaeda-linked leader in Syria after deadly ISIS ambush.
The United States carried out a third retaliatory strike in Syria on Friday, killing Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, an Al-Qaeda-affiliated leader directly linked to last month’s ambush that killed two U.S. soldiers and an American civilian interpreter. The strike was part of ongoing operations targeting militants responsible for attacks on American personnel in the region.
U.S. Central Command confirmed that al-Jasim, described as an “experienced terrorist leader,” had orchestrated attacks and maintained direct ties to the December 13 ambush that claimed the lives of Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, and civilian interpreter Ayad Mansoor Sakat. CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper emphasized that the strike demonstrates America’s commitment to pursuing terrorists globally.
The operation, known as “Hawkeye Strike,” is part of a broader U.S. campaign following President Donald Trump’s directive to target Islamic State operatives regrouping in Syria after the ouster of Bashar Assad. CENTCOM reported that the campaign, executed alongside coalition partners including Jordan and Syrian security forces, has hit over 100 IS infrastructure and weapons sites.
Also Read: US Launches Major Airstrikes on ISIS Targets Across Syria After Deadly Ambush
President Trump stressed that Syria is cooperating with U.S. forces and condemned attacks on American troops, noting that Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa expressed deep concern over the ambush. The operation aims to disrupt IS networks, prevent future attacks, and reinforce stability in northwest Syria.
The strike highlights ongoing U.S. counterterrorism efforts in the Middle East, particularly targeting leaders with cross-group affiliations, and underscores America’s commitment to safeguarding its personnel and coalition partners against insurgent threats. Investigations are ongoing to assess additional targets linked to both Al-Qaeda and Islamic State factions in the region.
Also Read: UK, France Carry Out Joint Airstrikes on Former ISIS Arms Facility in Syria
