US Intensifies Anti-ISIS Operations Following Soldier Deaths in Syria

The United States has ramped up its military operations against the Islamic State (IS) in Syria following the tragic deaths of two US soldiers and an interpreter on December 13. This escalation was confirmed by the US Central Command (CENTCOM) on December 17, which stated that nearly 80 operations have been conducted since July to target IS operatives posing threats to US interests.

The assault that resulted in the loss of American lives was attributed to a member of the Syrian security forces, with both Syrian authorities and the US linking the attack to the Islamic State. In the aftermath, US forces, in collaboration with local partners, have stepped up actions against IS and other militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq.

In its statement, CENTCOM highlighted that ISIS has inspired at least 11 plots or attacks against targets in the United States over the past year. This alarming trend underscores the ongoing threat posed by the group, despite significant territorial losses in the region. Over the past six months, US operations have resulted in the detention of 119 terrorists and the deaths of 14 terrorists.

Collaboration with Syrian Forces

The US has established a partnership with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the eastern regions of Syria, which has been crucial in efforts to combat the Islamic State over the last decade. “We are steadfast in our relentless pursuit of terrorists who seek to harm Americans and our interests abroad,” stated Admiral Brad Cooper, the head of CENTCOM.

The CENTCOM report also indicated that US personnel have engaged with the Syrian Ministry of Interior to conduct raids on IS sites. This cooperation has led to the destruction of over 130 mortars and rockets, in addition to various firearms and materials for making improvised explosive devices.

On the same day, the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported the arrest of an individual linked to the Islamic State. This arrest occurred during a security operation in the Dummar neighborhood of Damascus, where Syrian Brigadier General Osama Mohammad Khair Atkeh confirmed the seizure of explosive devices and weapons.

Regional Security Operations

Despite its diminished presence, the Islamic State continues to pose a significant threat in both Syria and Iraq. On December 17, Iraq’s Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS) announced the arrest of six suspected ISIS members and the destruction of multiple militant hideouts across the country. These operations took place in regions including Kirkuk, Nineveh, and Baghdad, showcasing coordinated efforts among Iraqi security forces and local intelligence.

In a rare move, Iraqi forces also conducted an airborne raid into Syria in collaboration with Syrian security counterparts. This operation occurred in northeastern Hasaka province, close to the Iraqi border. The Iraqi authorities have not disclosed details regarding the detainees’ nationalities or the charges against them.

According to reports from the North Press Agency, a US-led raid on December 18 targeted an Islamic State operative near Raqqa. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicated that this incident involved heavy gunfire exchanged between ISIS members and International Coalition Forces, marking a notable increase in operational tempo in the region.

As US and coalition forces continue to address the threats posed by the Islamic State, the situation remains fluid. The ongoing commitment to collaboration between US forces and local partners in Syria and Iraq will be critical in countering the resurgence of IS and ensuring regional stability.