US Launches Lethal Strike Against Al Qaeda Affiliate Leader in Syria
In a decisive move, the United States on Saturday announced a lethal strike in Syria targeting a key al Qaeda affiliate leader. This leader, Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, is accused of having direct connections to an ISIS attacker who tragically took the lives of three Americans in early December. The attack occurred in Palmyra, Syria, on December 13, 2025, resulting in the deaths of two US service members and a civilian interpreter.
"The elimination of a terrorist operative linked to the deaths of three Americans underscores our unwavering commitment to pursuing terrorists who target our forces," stated Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, in a statement on X (formerly Twitter).
CENTCOM emphasized that al-Jasim was an experienced terrorist leader with direct ties to the ISIS gunman responsible for the December attack. They are currently seeking further details and comments on the strike and the leader's alleged involvement.
This strike is part of a broader retaliation campaign by the US against ISIS, known as "Operation Hawkeye Strike." The US has been taking decisive action in response to the deadly ambush, demonstrating a resolute stance against terrorist threats.
In a powerful message, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed the sentiment, stating, "We will never forget, and we will never relent."
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