On Saturday, a devastating ambush in Syria resulted in the deaths of two U.S. soldiers and one civilian U.S. interpreter, according to reports from U.S. officials. The attack, believed to have been carried out by an ISIS gunman, occurred in the Palmyra region, a known hotspot for terrorism. The assailant was subsequently killed by partner forces during the ensuing skirmish, as confirmed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
In addition to the fatalities, three other U.S. service members were injured in this tragic incident. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated that the wounded personnel are American. The attack took place during a crucial leader engagement, part of ongoing counter-ISIS and counter-terrorism operations in the region. Parnell emphasized the importance of these operations in maintaining security and stability in Syria.
This incident marks the first combat deaths of U.S. personnel in Syria since President Donald Trump returned to the Oval Office. In response to the tragic news, Trump expressed his condolences for the fallen soldiers and condemned the ambush on social media. He described the attack as a significant act of aggression by ISIS against American forces and highlighted the dangerous conditions in the region that remain out of control.
President Trump’s remarks were echoed during a brief statement to the press, where he asserted, "We will retaliate." His comments reflect a strong commitment to addressing threats from ISIS and ensuring the safety of U.S. military members deployed in volatile areas.
The President of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has expressed profound anger and concern over the attack, warning of serious retaliation. This sentiment underscores the complex geopolitical landscape in Syria, where multiple factions, including ISIS, continue to pose significant challenges to both local and international forces.
Officials have not yet disclosed the identities of the deceased soldiers as they are in the process of notifying next-of-kin. This attack marks a grim milestone, as it represents the first combat deaths in Syria since 2019, when four Americans lost their lives in a suicide bombing in Manbij.
Prior to Saturday's incident, there had been a total of 10 U.S. military deaths in Syria, encompassing both hostile and non-hostile circumstances. The most recent loss prior to this attack was a non-hostile death recorded in February 2022. The ongoing risks faced by U.S. service members in Syria highlight the continued need for vigilance and effective counter-terrorism strategies in the region.
This tragic event not only underscores the dangers posed by ISIS but also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by U.S. military personnel in their commitment to maintaining global security.