US & Allies Decimate ISIS Leadership in Syria Amid Intensified Counter-Terrorism Operations

WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. and partner forces have delivered a significant blow to ISIS in Syria, neutralizing nearly 25 key figures since a major offensive began on December 19. The intensified operations, spearheaded by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), mark a renewed commitment to eradicating the terror group amidst rising threats and recent American casualties.

Operation Hawkeye Strike: A Massive Coordinated Offensive

The latest successes follow the launch of "Operation Hawkeye Strike" on December 19, a large-scale assault involving U.S. and Jordanian forces. This massive strike saw more than 70 targets hit with over 100 precision munitions, executed by dozens of fighter aircraft, attack helicopters, and artillery. The coordinated effort effectively crippled ISIS infrastructure and weapons sites across central Syria, laying the groundwork for subsequent targeted missions.

From December 20-29, CENTCOM and its partners conducted 11 missions, resulting in the elimination of at least seven ISIS members and the capture of others. These operations also destroyed four ISIS weapons caches, further degrading the group's capabilities.

Persistent Pressure on ISIS Networks

These recent actions are part of a broader, year-long campaign against ISIS. According to CENTCOM, over the past 12 months, joint forces in Syria have detained more than 300 terrorists and killed over 20. This relentless pressure underscores the ongoing threat posed by ISIS, even as its territorial caliphate has been dismantled.

The urgency of these operations is highlighted by intelligence revealing "at least 11 plots or attacks against targets in the United States" this year alone, all inspired by ISIS. This chilling statistic emphasizes the global reach and persistent ideological influence of the terrorist organization.

"We Will Not Relent": CENTCOM Commander Vows Continued Fight

CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper reiterated the unwavering resolve of the U.S. and its allies. "We will not relent," Cooper stated. "We are steadfast in commitment to working with regional partners to root out the ISIS threat posed to U.S. and regional security."

He added, "Continuing to hunt down terrorist operatives, eliminate ISIS networks, and work with partners to prevent an ISIS resurgence makes America, the region, and the world safer."

Remembering Fallen Heroes: A Catalyst for Action

The heightened counter-terrorism efforts come on the heels of a tragic incident earlier this month in Syria, where two Iowa Army National Guard soldiers and a civilian interpreter were killed. Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, of Des Moines, Iowa, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, of Marshalltown, Iowa, along with interpreter Ayad Mansoor Sakat, 54, lost their lives in an attack. Their sacrifice galvanized what U.S. officials described as "vengeance" attacks against ISIS targets.

President Donald Trump, alongside Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, has consistently affirmed the administration's commitment to counter-terrorism efforts, acknowledging the sacrifices of U.S. service members and emphasizing the critical importance of stabilizing regions like the Sahel, which is increasingly seen as an "epicenter of terrorism." The President was observed saluting during a solemn ceremony at Dover Air Force Base on December 17, 2025, as the remains of the fallen soldiers were returned.

This report was compiled by our journalistic team, drawing on official statements from U.S. Central Command and reports from Fox News Digital.