US Central Command said it carried out five strikes against ISIS targets across Syria between Jan. 27 and Feb. 2, underscoring a continued military campaign aimed at preventing the group’s resurgence. CENTCOM said the strikes targeted multiple ISIS facilities and were conducted as “partner forces” maintained pressure on remaining cells inside the country.
The statement released by CENTCOM said US forces used about “50 precision munitions delivered by fixed wing aircraft, rotary wing platforms and unmanned systems.” The strikes destroyed an ISIS communication site, a key logistics node and several weapons storage facilities.
According to the command, the targets supported the group’s ability to plan and coordinate attacks. The strikes form part of ongoing operations designed to degrade ISIS capabilities and limit its freedom of movement, particularly in areas where remnants of the group continue to operate.
CENTCOM Emphasizes Long-Term Defeat
Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, said the operations reflect a sustained focus on preventing ISIS from rebuilding its network in Syria.
“Striking these targets demonstrates our continued focus and resolve for preventing an ISIS resurgence in Syria,” Cooper said in the CENTCOM statement. “Operating in coordination with coalition and partner forces to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS makes America, the region and the world safer.”
CENTCOM also said that partner forces in Syria continue to apply military pressure alongside US troops as part of joint efforts to eliminate ISIS and reduce threats to regional security and stability.
Operation Hawkeye Strike Background
The recent strikes fall under Operation Hawkeye, which US and partner forces launched following a Dec. 13 ISIS attack on US and Syrian forces in Palmyra. That ambush killed two US service members and an American interpreter, according to CENTCOM. Since the operation began, US officials say the campaign has focused on deliberate and intelligence driven actions aimed at leadership figures, logistics hubs and “operational enablers” tied to the group’s attacks.
CENTCOM said following nearly two months of targeted operations, over 50 ISIS fighters have been killed or captured. Among them was Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, who US forces killed during a deliberate strike in northwest Syria on Jan. 16. CENTCOM said Jasim was directly connected to the ISIS gunman responsible for the Dec. 13 Palmyra attack.
Regional Security Context
The announcement comes as regional governments continue to address the threat posed by ISIS remnants operating across borders. Iraqi officials recently approved a comprehensive plan and established a unified security committee managing the transfer of ISIS elements from Syria. CENTCOM said it will continue to work with coalition and partner forces to sustain pressure on ISIS and prevent the group from reconstituting its operational capabilities in Syria.
