Operation Hawkeye
Context: The United States carried out large-scale airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria under Operation Hawkeye after an ISIS ambush in Palmyra killed two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter.
About Operation Hawkeye:
What it is?
- Operation Hawkeye is a US-led military counter-terrorism operation involving air and precision strikes against Islamic State (ISIS) targets across Syria.
Launched by: The operation was launched by the United States under President Donald Trump and executed through US Central Command (CENTCOM) in December 2025.
Aim:
- To avenge and respond to the Palmyra ISIS ambush that killed American personnel.
- To degrade ISIS networks, prevent regrouping, and protect US and coalition forces operating in Syria.
- To reinforce the message that attacks on US personnel will invite direct military retaliation.
About Syria:
What it is?
- Syria is a sovereign Middle Eastern country that has emerged from a 13-year civil war (2011–2024) and is currently governed by an interim government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Located in: Syria lies in south-western Asia on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, forming a strategic land bridge between West Asia, the Levant and Mesopotamia.
Capital: Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Neighbouring nations: Turkey, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Israel.
Key features:
- Mediterranean coastline – Gives Syria sea access for trade and naval activity.
- Al-Ansariyah Mountains – Separate the humid coast from the dry interior.
- Anti-Lebanon & Mount Hermon – Form a natural border and water source.
- Syrian Desert – A vast arid interior with strategic importance.
- Euphrates River – Syria’s main lifeline for irrigation and power.
- Orontes River – Supports fertile western valleys and settlements.