This operation was announced on December 19, 2025, at the direction of President Donald Trump and was a response to the tragic attack by terrorists on American and Syrian military forces that occurred on December 13, 2025, in the Palmyra area.
The command clarified that the goal of the attacks is to destroy ISIS positions throughout Syria, with a priority on eradicating the threat of Islamic terrorism to American servicemen, preventing new attacks, and protecting allies in the region.
Central Command emphasized: "American and coalition forces remain steadfast in their commitment to pursue terrorists who threaten the security of the United States."
It was also noted that the U.S. position remains unchanged: any actions threatening American servicemen will be pursued, and those responsible will be eliminated, regardless of their location.
The U.S. began military operations in Syria in mid-December in response to an ISIS attack that resulted in the deaths of two American servicemen, one civilian translator, and a Syrian soldier. Donald Trump previously emphasized that terrorists would receive a strong response and noted the support of U.S. actions from Syrian authorities.
