A military strike conducted by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) in northwest Syria on January 16 resulted in the death of Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, an individual identified as an Al-Qaeda-affiliated leader. U.S. officials stated that al-Jasim was linked to an Islamic State (ISIS) ambush on December 13 in Palmyra, Syria, which killed two U.S. service members and an American civilian interpreter, and injured three others. This strike is part of a broader U.S. operation targeting ISIS infrastructure and weapons sites in the region.
The January 16 Strike
On January 16, U.S. Central Command executed a military strike in northwest Syria. The operation led to the death of Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, who was described by CENTCOM as an Al-Qaeda-affiliated leader and an experienced terrorist leader involved in plotting attacks. Officials indicated al-Jasim had a direct connection to an ISIS gunman responsible for an ambush that occurred in Palmyra, Syria, on December 13.
The December 13 Ambush
The December 13 ambush claimed the lives of U.S. Army Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, U.S. Army Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard, and American civilian interpreter Ayad Mansoor Sakat. Three other U.S. service members were also injured in the attack.
Broader Operations: Operation Hawkeye Strike
The January 16 strike is part of Operation Hawkeye Strike, a series of large-scale strikes initiated by the U.S. following the December ambush. Former President Trump had pledged retaliation after the attack, and previous retaliatory airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria were conducted on December 19, hitting over 70 targets.
Operation Hawkeye Strike has involved U.S. and partner forces, including Jordan and Syria, targeting more than 100 Islamic State infrastructure and weapons sites. President Trump had previously stated that Syria was fighting alongside American troops and that the U.S. military was expanding cooperation with security forces as part of a coalition combating the militant group.
Official Statements
Admiral Brad Cooper, Commander of CENTCOM, stated that the death of an operative linked to the deaths of three Americans demonstrates resolve in pursuing individuals who attack U.S. forces. He further stated there is no safe place for those who conduct, plot, or inspire attacks on American citizens and service members.
Admiral Cooper also noted that the U.S. supports efforts by all parties in Syria to prevent escalation and seek resolution through dialogue. He urged the Syrian government to cease attacks in the region between Aleppo and al-Tabqa, emphasizing that a peaceful Syria is crucial for regional stability. Cooper also stated that pursuing ISIS requires collaboration among Syrian partners and U.S./coalition forces.