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Iowa Guardsmen Killed in Syria Ambush, Officials Confirm

PUBLISHED Dec 13, 2025, 10:43 PM ET

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Iowa Guardsmen Killed in Syria Ambush, Officials Confirm

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 12

Center 100%

Sources: 12

Johnston, Iowa — Two Iowa National Guard soldiers were killed and three wounded Saturday in an ambush near Palmyra, Syria, officials said. A U.S. civilian interpreter also died and the attacker was killed, officials added. The soldiers conducted counterterrorism operations as part of Operation Inherent Resolve; Maj. Gen. Stephen Osborn confirmed the incident at Camp Dodge. The Iowa National Guard released names Monday as Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard and Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar. Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered flags at half-staff and officials said two wounded are stable and one is in good condition. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Faro B. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

May 2025: Iowa National Guard began noted deployments to the Middle East under Operation Inherent Resolve.
Saturday: A lone gunman ambushed U.S. troops near Palmyra, Syria, killing two Iowa soldiers and a U.S. civilian; three soldiers wounded.
Saturday night: Iowa officials briefed the public; Gov. Kim Reynolds expressed condolences and urged support for families.
Sunday: Family members and local leaders publicly reacted; names were withheld pending official release.
Monday: The U.S. Army identified the two soldiers and Iowa ordered flags at half-staff.