A high-ranking al-Qaeda operative was eliminated in US airstrikes in Syria following an ISIS assault that resulted in the deaths of three American citizens.
Identified as Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, he was believed to be a key figure behind the heinous attack and described as a seasoned terrorist leader scheming against the US, according to the Pentagon.
Adm. Brad Cooper, the head of US Central Command, emphasized the US commitment to pursuing individuals who target American personnel. The operation, carried out on January 16 by US Central Command, successfully targeted and neutralized Al-Jasim, who had direct ties to the ISIS assailant responsible for the tragic incident in Palmyra, Syria, on December 13.
Following the December 13 attack, a significant military response named Hawkeye Strike was launched by CENTCOM, resulting in the targeting of over 100 ISIS infrastructure and weapon sites using more than 200 precision munitions. Furthermore, the US and partner forces managed to apprehend over 300 ISIS members and eliminate more than 20 terrorists in Syria over the past year, eliminating threats to US and regional security.
On December 19, the Trump administration initiated military actions in Syria to eradicate Islamic State militants and their weapon facilities.
President Trump issued a stern warning to terrorists threatening Americans, vowing severe retaliation for any aggression against the USA. US officials described the strikes as extensive, hitting 70 targets in central Syria known for housing ISIS infrastructure and weaponry. Additional strikes were hinted at following the operation.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed Trump’s sentiment, emphasizing the US’s unwavering commitment to defending its citizens under the President’s leadership.
Despite refocusing efforts on the Western Hemisphere, including Venezuela and the Caribbean, the US has diverted considerable resources from the Middle East to support these objectives. In November, the US deployed its most advanced aircraft carrier to South American waters from the Mediterranean Sea as part of this strategy.