Washington, January 18 – In a decisive retaliation, the United States launched a precision airstrike in northwest Syria, eliminating a senior Al-Qaeda operative linked to a deadly attack on American forces. The strike, dubbed Operation Hawk Eye, targeted Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, a key figure with direct ties to ISIS activities in the region.
The operation comes in response to the December 13 assault in Palmyra, Syria, where a gunman killed two US service members and one civilian interpreter. US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed al-Jasim’s death on January 16, describing him as a senior terrorist responsible for orchestrating threats against American personnel.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth vowed unwavering resolve, stating, ‘We will never forget, and we will never yield.’ CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper emphasized the strike’s message: no safe haven exists for those plotting against US citizens and troops. ‘We will hunt you down,’ he declared.
This airstrike marks the third round of US military actions in Syria since the Palmyra incident, part of a broader campaign to dismantle ISIS infrastructure. Over 100 sites have been hit with more than 200 precision-guided munitions, crippling the group’s ability to plan attacks.
Ground operations have intensified as well, with over 300 ISIS operatives captured and more than 20 eliminated last year. US officials highlight the persistent ISIS threat in Syria, justifying the deployment of hundreds of troops to counter it. The Hawk Eye operation underscores America’s commitment to neutralizing terrorism at its source, ensuring security for its forces and allies in volatile regions.