US Military Destroys 70 ISIS Sites in “Declaration of Vengeance” Operation

The United States unleashed powerful military strikes across Syria, hitting 70 Islamic State targets in what officials termed a “declaration of vengeance” for the killing of American personnel. The operation showcased American military reach and determination to respond decisively to attacks on its forces.
Three Americans lost their lives in a Palmyra attack when an assailant targeted a convoy supporting international counter-terrorism efforts. The incident claimed two Army soldiers and a civilian interpreter while wounding three additional US service members. The attacker, later identified as a Syrian security forces member with suspected ISIS connections, was killed during the assault on the convoy participating in Operation Inherent Resolve.
The retaliatory strikes targeted extensive ISIS infrastructure throughout central Syria, focusing on facilities essential to terrorist operations. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the operation with strong language, stating America had “hunted and killed” its enemies and would continue aggressive pursuit of ISIS elements. Military planners indicated the strikes successfully degraded terrorist capabilities and that additional operations should be expected.
President Trump linked the military action directly to ISIS’s attack on Americans, describing the terrorist killings as “vicious” and warranting forceful response. He expressed hope for Syria’s future under new leadership, noting President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s cooperation with counter-terrorism efforts. The Syrian government has publicly supported elimination of ISIS, recognizing the terrorist group as a threat to national stability and reconstruction efforts.
The American military presence in Syria continues despite ongoing discussions about force levels and base consolidation. Trump administration officials have indicated plans to reduce personnel by half while eventually operating from a single base. However, recent attacks demonstrate the continuing ISIS threat and need for sustained military pressure. US forces remain deployed at strategic locations throughout Syria, including Kurdish-controlled regions and border areas, where they work with international partners to prevent terrorist resurgence. Syria’s foreign ministry has affirmed commitment to ensuring ISIS finds no sanctuary within Syrian territory, supporting efforts to eliminate the terrorist threat.