US Launches Operation Hawkeye Against ISIS in Syria
PUBLISHED Dec 19, 2025, 7:35 PM ET
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Washington — The United States launched Operation Hawkeye Friday, striking Islamic State targets in central Syria after a Dec. 13 attack killed three Americans. U.S. jets, attack helicopters, and HIMARS rocket artillery supported strikes that U.S. officials said hit about 70 targets and employed more than 100 precision munitions. F-16s from Jordan also participated, officials said. The Pentagon and U.S. Central Command described the operation as retaliation to eliminate ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites, and said more strikes may follow. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and President Trump framed the action on social media. Based on 11 articles reviewed and research.
By Sidra | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Dec. 13 — Lone-gunman attack in Palmyra kills two U.S. soldiers and a U.S. civilian interpreter.
- Dec. 14–18 — U.S. officials investigate the Palmyra attack and publicly attribute responsibility to the Islamic State group.
- Dec. 19–20 — The U.S. launches Operation Hawkeye, striking roughly 70 targets across central Syria.
- Dec. 20 — CENTCOM and Pentagon release statements describing targets, assets used, and munitions expended; leaders post social-media statements.
- Dec. 21 — Media reports and local social-media accounts describe explosions; U.S. officials indicate further strikes may follow.
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US Launches Operation Hawkeye Against ISIS in Syria
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