On January 10, 2026, U.S. and Jordanian military forces carried out major airstrikes against Islamic State positions throughout Syria. U.S. Central Command, the military headquarters for the Middle East, said the operation was meant to destroy the group’s bases and supply routes.
The mission involved about 20 U.S. attack planes and drones, alongside fighter jets from Jordan. Together, the aircraft fired over 90 bombs and missiles at 35 specific targets. Capt. Timothy Hawkins, a spokesman for Central Command, said the strikes targeted hidden weapon storage sites.
Response to Palmyra Attack
The military action was a direct response to a December 2025 attack in Palmyra, Syria. During that incident, a lone gunman linked to the Islamic State killed three Americans. The victims included two Iowa National Guard members and a civilian translator who were working to combat terrorism in the region.
These deaths were the first U.S. military losses in Syria since the collapse of the Bashar al-Assad government in 2024. Syria is currently led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who took office after the country's civil war ended.
Ongoing Operations
This mission is the latest in a series of strikes aimed at dismantling the group's presence. On December 19, 2025, U.S. forces launched massive airstrikes on 70 locations in central Syria, using more than 100 bombs and missiles.
Additionally, in November 2025, a joint U.S.-Syrian mission destroyed more than 15 weapon storage areas in southern Syria. These sites contained mortars, rockets, and parts for homemade bombs. U.S. Central Command reported that operations against the militants over the last six months have captured 119 people and killed 14 others.
Intelligence Warnings
Despite these operations, U.S. intelligence officials have warned that the Islamic State is attempting to rebuild its ability to carry out attacks around the world.
Intelligence reports indicate the group is plotting prison breaks to free about 36,000 people held in northeastern Syria. The prisoners include roughly 10,000 fighters and 26,000 relatives.
The threat also includes concerns about safety within the United States. Central Command noted that the Islamic State has inspired at least 11 terrorist plots or attacks within the U.S. over the past year.
