Defcon Alerts Threat Monitor

Defcon Alerts Threat Monitor

Mideast

U.S. Central Command Operation Hawkeye Strike Against ISIS in Syria

The operation struck more than 70 targets across multiple locations using fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery.

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Defcon Level and Donald Standeford
Dec 20, 2025
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MIDDLE EAST — U.S. Central Command initiated Operation Hawkeye Strike on December 19 at 4 p.m. Eastern Time, targeting ISIS positions in central Syria.

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The operation struck more than 70 targets across multiple locations using fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery.

Jordanian Armed Forces supported with fighter aircraft. Over 100 precision munitions targeted known ISIS infrastructure and weapons sites.

Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, stated, “This operation is critical to preventing ISIS from inspiring terrorist plots and attacks against the U.S. homeland. We will continue to relentlessly pursue terrorists who seek to harm Americans and our partners across the region.”

The strikes followed an ISIS attack on U.S. and Syrian personnel on December 13, resulting in casualties. U.S. and partner forces in Syria have conducted nearly 80 operations since July to eliminate terrorist remnants posing threats to the United States and interests abroad.

ISIS has inspired at least 11 plots or attacks against targets in the United States over the past year. Central Command operations have detained 119 terrorists and killed 14 over the last six months, disrupting efforts for ISIS to reconstitute and inspire terror attacks globally.

Ambush Incident in Palmyra

The December 13 attack targeted U.S. and Syrian personnel. ISIS militants engaged the forces, leading to deaths and injuries. The incident occurred during operations in Syria and Iraq.

Refer a friend

This event highlights persistent ISIS threats in the region. Security measures for personnel have been adjusted following the attack. Investigations continue to assess details.

U.S. Military Response, Analysis:

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Donald Standeford
Founder of The Standeford Journal. I'm an American independent investigative journalist, intel/geopolitical analyst, and world traveler.
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