U.S. forces executed a targeted strike in northwest Syria on December 15, 2023, resulting in the death of a key leader of an Al-Qaeda affiliate. This operation was part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts following a deadly ambush that claimed the lives of two U.S. service members and an American interpreter the previous month.
According to U.S. Central Command, the strike eliminated Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, described as “an experienced terrorist leader.” Al-Jasim was directly linked to the December 13 attack in Palmyra, Syria, which left three Americans dead and several others injured. The military noted that al-Jasim had been involved in planning attacks and was connected to the shooter responsible for the ambush.
In a statement released on December 17, Adm. Brad Cooper, the commander of U.S. Central Command, emphasized the resolve of U.S. forces in pursuing individuals who threaten American lives. “The death of a terrorist operative linked to the deaths of three Americans demonstrates our resolve in pursuing terrorists who attack our forces,” he stated. “There is no safe place for those who conduct, plot, or inspire attacks on American citizens and our warfighters. We will find you.”
The U.S. Defense Department indicated that the operation was part of a broader initiative known as Hawkeye Strike, which has intensified in recent weeks. This operation has involved large-scale strikes aimed at ISIS infrastructure and weapon sites, reportedly impacting over 100 targets with more than 200 precision munitions.
In light of the December ambush, President Donald Trump had pledged retaliation, characterizing the event as “an ISIS attack against the U.S.” The recent strike against al-Jasim underscores the ongoing commitment of U.S. forces to address threats posed by terrorist organizations in the region.
Last week, U.S. and partner forces captured over 300 ISIS operatives and killed more than 20 terrorists in Syria over the past year. These efforts have been crucial in eliminating threats to both U.S. national security and regional stability. The military continues to assert that its operations are aimed at dismantling networks that pose risks to American personnel and allies.
As the situation in Syria remains volatile, the U.S. military is expected to maintain its aggressive stance against terrorist groups, emphasizing the importance of ongoing cooperation with partner forces in the region. The operational focus on key leaders such as al-Jasim reflects a strategic approach to counterterrorism, aimed at disrupting the planning and execution of future attacks against U.S. interests.
