Furious Trump vows retaliation after 3
U.S. troops on patrol in central Syria came under fire on Saturday, with casualties reported among American and allied forces, according to social media updates from news outlets and corroborated by multiple international sources.
The incident occurred near the ancient city of Palmyra, where a joint patrol of U.S. forces and Syrian military personnel was operating as part of continued counter-terrorism and stabilization missions in the region. Initial reports indicate that an attacker opened fire on the patrol, resulting in multiple casualties on both sides.
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According to official statements and news dispatches, two U.S. Army soldiers and an American civilian interpreter were killed in the attack, while three other U.S. soldiers and two Syrian military personnel were wounded.
The assailant, described by U.S. Central Command as a lone gunman affiliated with the Islamic State militant group, was killed by Syrian partner forces at the scene.
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The patrol was conducting an engagement related to ongoing anti-ISIS operations when it was ambushed. This attack took place in an area where the Syrian government does not have full control, highlighting the ongoing security challenges despite international efforts to counter extremist activity.
The wounded were evacuated by helicopter to a nearby U.S. base in Syria’s Al-Tanf region, near the Iraqi border, for medical treatment. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a condemnation, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to combating terrorism and supporting partner forces in the region. He emphasized that those who target American personnel would be pursued and held accountable.
This incident marks one of the deadliest attacks on U.S. forces in Syria in recent years, underscoring the persistent threat from extremist groups even after the territorial defeat of ISIS in 2019.
It also comes amid evolving cooperation between the United States and the new Syrian government, which has aimed to bolster efforts against extremist remnants following the long-running civil war.
President Donald Trump responded to the news, stating that there would be “very serious retaliation” after the assault and expressing deep condolences for the lives lost. He also reiterated the importance of continued cooperation with Syrian partners in the fight against terrorism.
