U.S. Strike Eliminates Al-Qaeda Leader Linked to Deadly Attack

U.S. forces conducted a targeted strike in northwest Syria on March 15, 2024, resulting in the death of Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, a leader of an Al-Qaeda affiliate. Officials confirmed that al-Jasim was connected to an ISIS attack that occurred on December 13, 2023, in Palmyra, Syria, where two U.S. service members and an American interpreter lost their lives. This operation underscores ongoing U.S. efforts to combat terrorism in the region.

According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), al-Jasim was considered an “experienced terrorist leader” who plotted attacks against U.S. and allied forces. The strike aimed to dismantle networks responsible for orchestrating violence against American personnel. CENTCOM’s statement emphasized that al-Jasim had direct ties to the shooter involved in the December ambush.

During the attack in Palmyra, in addition to the fatalities, several other American and Syrian personnel were injured. In response to that incident, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated on social media that U.S. partner forces had successfully neutralized the shooter responsible for the attack.

In a statement, Adm. Brad Cooper, the CENTCOM commander, reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to pursuing those who threaten American lives. He remarked, “The death of a terrorist operative linked to the deaths of three Americans demonstrates our resolve in pursuing terrorists who attack our forces. There is no safe place for those who conduct, plot, or inspire attacks on American citizens and our warfighters. We will find you.”

The December ambush, described by President Donald Trump as “an ISIS attack against the U.S.,” prompted a series of counterterrorism operations by U.S. forces. CENTCOM noted that the recent strike was part of a larger initiative, known as Hawkeye Strike, which has involved extensive airstrikes targeting ISIS infrastructure across Syria.

Over the past few months, this operation has resulted in significant actions against ISIS, with U.S. and partner forces hitting more than 100 targets related to ISIS’s operational capabilities, employing over 200 precision munitions. These efforts have led to the capture of more than 300 ISIS operatives and the elimination of over 20 militants perceived as threats to both U.S. security and regional stability.

The continued emphasis on dismantling ISIS strongholds indicates a robust strategy by the U.S. to maintain security in the region and prevent future attacks on American forces. As operations unfold, the U.S. remains committed to working alongside partner forces to ensure the safety of its personnel and the broader international community.