Recent operations by U.S. and coalition forces have dealt significant blows to the Islamic State (ISIS) in Iraq and Syria. Airstrikes conducted in the Hamrin mountains of northeast Iraq from December 30th through early January targeted ISIS locations, disrupting their ability to organize attacks against civilians, U.S. citizens, and allies in the region.
These partnered operations are crucial for maintaining pressure on ISIS and preventing them from exploiting the evolving security landscape, according to CENTCOM Commander Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla. He emphasized the global nature of the fight against ISIS, relying on coalitions, allies, and partners for the enduring defeat of the terrorist group. CENTCOM remains dedicated to aggressively pursuing these terrorists who pose a threat to regional stability and international security.
During these operations, ISIS fighters engaged coalition forces on multiple occasions, prompting responsive airstrikes. In one instance, jets targeted ISIS fighters taking refuge in a cave. While one coalition member was killed and two others were wounded, no U.S. personnel were injured, and no damage to U.S. equipment was reported.
In a separate operation near Deir ez-Zor, Syria, from January 2nd to 3rd, the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), supported by CENTCOM forces, captured a key ISIS cell leader. This capture represents another success in the ongoing efforts to dismantle the terrorist organization's leadership and operational capabilities.
