BEIRUT (AP) — Several U.S. airstrikes hit camps run by the Islamic State group in Syria in an operation the U.S. military says will prevent the extremists from carrying out terrorist attacks in the region and elsewhere.
The bombings were carried out on Friday, according to US Central Command, which did not specify where in Syria they occurred. There are about 900 U.S. troops deployed in eastern Syria alongside the Syrian Democratic Forces, a U.S.-backed Kurdish-led contingent that has proven crucial in the fight against IS militants.
Despite their defeat, attacks by IS sleeper cells in Iraq and Syria have grown in recent years, leaving dozens dead and injured.
At its peak in 2014, the IS group controlled territory and declared a caliphate in much of Iraq and Syria, but was defeated in Iraq in 2017. In March 2019, the extremists lost the last area they controlled in eastern Syria.
The US military said the attacks would affect the IS group’s ability to plan, organize and carry out attacks against the United States, its allies and partners, and civilians inside and outside the region.
Analysis was underway to determine the effects of the attacks, they noted, and there had been no civilian casualties.
The Iraqi military said last month that Iraqi and US forces killed a senior IS commander who was wanted by the US, as well as other senior militants.
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Interview with Military Expert Dr. Sarah Khalil on Recent U.S. Airstrikes in Syria
Interviewer: Dr. Khalil, thank you for joining us today. The recent U.S. airstrikes against Islamic State camps in Syria have sparked considerable discussion. Can you provide insight into the strategic importance of these strikes in relation to the current state of ISIS?
Dr. Khalil: Absolutely. These airstrikes are a clear message that the U.S. remains committed to countering ISIS, even as we see a resurgence of sleeper cells in the region. The U.S. military aims to disrupt their ability to plan and execute attacks, not just in Syria and Iraq, but also on American soil and against its allies.
Interviewer: There has been criticism regarding the lack of clarity about endpoints to U.S. involvement in these operations. Given the complexities in Syria, do you believe that continued airstrikes are an effective long-term solution?
Dr. Khalil: That’s a valid concern. While military action can temporarily disrupt ISIS operations, it’s not a comprehensive solution. A robust political strategy alongside military efforts is essential to address the root causes of extremism. The U.S. must also work with local governments and communities to foster stability.
Interviewer: Many people are worried about potential civilian casualties during these operations. The U.S. military has stated there were no civilian casualties in this latest round of strikes. How can the military ensure this remains the case in future operations?
Dr. Khalil: Civilian safety is paramount, and the U.S. has made significant improvements in intelligence and targeting to minimize collateral damage. However, the unpredictability of war zones means there’s always risk involved. Engaging local intelligence and conducting thorough assessments before operations can improve outcomes.
Interviewer: Your insights shed light on the complexities at play. what do you think is the general public perception regarding U.S. military involvement in the Middle East? Is it evolving, particularly with ongoing concerns about domestic security?
Dr. Khalil: There’s definitely a split in public opinion. Some believe in proactive measures to protect against terrorism, while others argue for a more isolationist approach, preferring to prioritize domestic issues. This tension will only grow as ISIS continues to adapt and threaten not just the region but the global landscape.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Khalil, for your analysis. It’s clear that this situation raises crucial questions about the effectiveness of military interventions versus political strategies in combating terrorism.
Question for Readers: Given the complexities surrounding U.S. military involvement abroad, do you believe that continued airstrikes against groups like ISIS are necessary for national security, or should the focus shift more to political and diplomatic solutions? What are your thoughts?
An casualties reported in these recent airstrikes. How do you assess the measures the U.S. has taken to minimize civilian harm in such operations?
Dr. Khalil: The U.S. military has indeed placed significant emphasis on reducing civilian casualties through intelligence gathering and precision targeting. The absence of reported civilian casualties in this instance indicates a degree of effectiveness in their operations. However, the risk can never be entirely eliminated, and it’s crucial that the military continues to prioritize civilian safety and transparency in reporting.
Interviewer: With about 900 U.S. troops currently deployed in eastern Syria, what does the presence of these forces mean for the effectiveness of the Syrian Democratic Forces in combating ISIS?
Dr. Khalil: The partnership between U.S. forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has proven to be vital in combating ISIS. The SDF is a well-trained, local force that understands the terrain and the dynamics of the conflict, and they play an essential role in intelligence sharing and ground operations. However, U.S. support remains crucial; without it, we would likely see a resurgence of IS activity in the region.
Interviewer: what should we be watching for in the coming months regarding ISIS and these ongoing military operations?
Dr. Khalil: Moving forward, we should monitor any shifts in IS activity, particularly the response from sleeper cells. Additionally, the effectiveness of U.S. airstrikes in curbing IS capabilities will be crucial to track, along with any potential shifts in U.S. policy as it relates to involvement in Syria. Ultimately, a multifaceted approach that includes engagement with regional partners is essential to long-term stability in the area.
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Khalil. Your expertise sheds valuable light on this pressing issue.
Dr. Khalil: Thank you for having me.
