Operation Hawkeye Strike: U.S. and Partner Forces Target ISIS in Syria
U.S. Central Command recently announced that nearly 25 ISIS figures have been terminated or captured by the U.S. and partner forces following a strike in Syria on December 19. Operations conducted between December 20-29 resulted in the killing of seven ISIS members and the capture of the rest, along with the elimination of four ISIS weapons caches.
The launch of Operation Hawkeye Strike on December 19 involved U.S. and Jordanian forces targeting over 70 sites with more than 100 precision munitions. This massive strike, carried out by fighter aircraft, attack helicopters, and artillery, destroyed ISIS infrastructure and weapons sites in central Syria.
Over the past year, U.S. and partner forces in Syria have detained over 300 terrorists and killed more than 20, according to CENTCOM. Additionally, there have been at least 11 plots or attacks against U.S. targets inspired by ISIS this year.
CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper emphasized the commitment to working with regional partners to eliminate the ISIS threat and ensure U.S. and regional security. The ongoing efforts to hunt down terrorist operatives, dismantle ISIS networks, and prevent a resurgence of the group contribute to a safer America, region, and world.
Earlier this month, two Iowa Army National Guard soldiers and a civilian interpreter were killed in Syria. The soldiers were identified as Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, of Des Moines, Iowa, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, of Marshalltown, Iowa, while the interpreter was Ayad Mansoor Sakat, 54. The U.S. continues to launch attacks on ISIS targets to avenge the deaths of these soldiers and maintain security in the region.