US military kills ISIS leader in targeted airstrike in Syria
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Friday that its forces had successfully carried out an airstrike in eastern Syria, resulting in the death of ISIS leader Abu Yusif. The strike also claimed the life of another ISIS operative. The targeted airstrike took place in the province of Deir ez Zor and is part of CENTCOM’s ongoing efforts to disrupt and degrade terrorist activities in the region.
In a statement released on Friday morning, CENTCOM Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla emphasized the United States’ commitment to preventing ISIS from regaining strength in Syria. He highlighted the threat posed by over 8,000 ISIS operatives currently detained in facilities in Syria and vowed to aggressively target these individuals, including those planning operations beyond the country’s borders.
The airstrike in Deir ez Zor comes amidst significant changes in Syria, following the recent fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Assad fled to Russia earlier this month, ending his prolonged struggle to maintain power in the country. The area where the airstrike took place was previously under the control of the Syrian regime and Russian forces before Assad’s departure.
The situation in Syria remains volatile, with attacks by the Turkish military on Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) escalating since Assad’s exit. As a response to the instability in the region, Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Ryder confirmed that there are currently 2,000 U.S. troops deployed in Syria.
CENTCOM’s successful airstrike targeting ISIS leaders demonstrates the United States’ continued commitment to combating terrorism in the region. The death of Abu Yusif and the other ISIS operative marks a significant blow to the terrorist organization’s operations in Syria. The U.S. remains vigilant in its efforts to prevent ISIS from regrouping and posing a threat to regional and international security.
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Sarah Rumpf-Whitten is a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. For story tips and ideas, contact sarah.rumpf@fox.com or connect on Twitter: @s_rumpfwhitten.