US Launches ‘Operation Hawkeye Strike’ Against Islamic State in Syria

The US administration on 19 December confirmed it carried out military strikes in Syria targeting Islamic State (IS) fighters and weapons sites.

• The strikes were described as “large-scale”, hitting around 70 targets across central Syria.

Operation Hawkeye Strike

• The operation has been named “Operation Hawkeye Strike.”
• It targets IS-linked infrastructure and weapons depots.
• US officials said more strikes are expected in the coming days.

Trigger for the Operation

• The strikes were launched in response to an ambush in central Syria.
• The attack killed:
  • Two US Army soldiers
  • One American civilian interpreter
• The incident occurred last Saturday near the ancient city of Palmyra.

Details of the Ambush

• The attacker reportedly targeted a convoy of American and Syrian forces.
• The assailant was shot dead after the attack.
• Three additional US soldiers were wounded.

US Position

• The US said the operation demonstrates its resolve to:
  • Protect its personnel.
  • Degrade the operational capability of Islamic State, which continues to pose a threat in parts of Syria.