Us Launches Operation Hawkeye Strike Against Isis In Syria

The United States launched a wave of airstrikes against forces identified with the Islamic State group (ISIS) in Syria on January 10, 2026, as part of Operation Hawkeye Strike, a retaliatory campaign in response to the killing of three American troops last month. The operation marked the second round of strikes in the operation, which was sparked by an ambush on December 13 by a gunman affiliated with ISIS near Palmyra, Syria.

The airstrikes took place in Syria, with U.S. forces operating alongside partner nations, and involved 20 aircraft striking 35 targets using more than 90 precision munitions. The mission included F-15E Strike Eagles and A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, which were loaded with 2,000-pound GBU-31 Joint Direct Attack Munitions.

The operation has been welcomed by the U.S. government, which has emphasized its commitment to protecting American troops and defeating ISIS. “Our message remains strong: If you harm our warfighters, we will find you and kill you anywhere in the world, no matter how hard you try to evade justice,” CENTCOM said in its release.

The U.S. has roughly 1,000 troops deployed in Syria to fight ISIS, down from around 2,000 a year ago. U.S. troops have been operating in eastern Syria for years, where they have trained and assisted primarily Kurdish partner forces as part of the counter-ISIS campaign. ISIS’s self-declared caliphate was defeated in 2019, but splinter groups remain active.

The success of Operation Hawkeye Strike is a testament to the effectiveness of the U.S. military’s counter-ISIS campaign. The operation demonstrates the U.S. military’s ability to adapt and respond quickly to emerging threats, while also showcasing its commitment to protecting American troops and defeating terrorist organizations.

In addition to the troops in Syria, CENTCOM also continues to host a sizable number of U.S. Air Force assets in the region, including F-16 fighters and KC-135 tankers. The Trump administration and Syria’s new president Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led the rebel forces that toppled dictator Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, have demonstrated growing cooperation.

Sharaa visited the White House last month, and Syria officially joined the coalition to defeat ISIS. This development marks a significant shift in the U.S.-Syria relationship, with both countries working together to combat the remaining remnants of ISIS.

The airstrikes against ISIS also highlight the importance of airpower in modern warfare. The F-15E Strike Eagle and A-10 Thunderbolt II are highly effective platforms that have proven themselves time and again in combat. Their use in Operation Hawkeye Strike is a testament to their capabilities and demonstrates the U.S. military’s commitment to investing in its most advanced aircraft.

The operation has been carried out with meticulous planning and coordination, as evident from the unclassified footage released by U.S. Air Forces Central. The video shows the aircraft being prepared for the mission, providing a glimpse into the extensive planning that went into the operation.

In conclusion, Operation Hawkeye Strike represents a significant escalation in the U.S. military’s counter-ISIS campaign. The operation showcases the effectiveness of U.S. airpower and highlights the importance of cooperation between the U.S. government and partner nations like Syria. As the conflict against ISIS continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize the efforts of the U.S. military and its partner forces in Syria.

The success of Operation Hawkeye Strike underscores the importance of maintaining a strong and capable U.S. military presence in the Middle East. The operation demonstrates the U.S. military’s ability to adapt and respond quickly to emerging threats, while also showcasing its commitment to protecting American troops and defeating terrorist organizations.

Ultimately, the defeat of ISIS will require sustained effort and cooperation between the U.S. government, partner nations, and local forces. Operation Hawkeye Strike represents an important step towards achieving this goal and highlights the importance of continued support for the U.S. military’s efforts in Syria.

The bravery and sacrifice of U.S. troops, such as the three killed on December 13, will not be forgotten. The airstrikes against ISIS serve as a reminder of the risks faced by U.S. service members in combat zones, but also demonstrate their resilience and determination to protect American interests.

The use of precision munitions in Operation Hawkeye Strike is a testament to the advancement of military technology and the importance of investing in research and development. The GBU-31 Joint Direct Attack Munition has proven itself effective in previous operations, and its continued use demonstrates the U.S. military’s commitment to maintaining a strong arsenal.

As the U.S. continues to work towards the defeat of ISIS, it is essential to recognize the efforts of the U.S. military and its partner forces in Syria. The operation highlights the importance of airpower in modern warfare and underscores the need for continued cooperation between the U.S. government and partner nations like Syria.