US Launches Syria Strikes Backed by Jolani’s Regime
The United States has launched a new campaign against ISIS positions in Syria. Operation Hawkeye Strike began after a deadly attack in Palmyra killed American soldiers and an interpreter. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the mission aims to destroy ISIS fighters, weapons sites and bases.
President Trump confirmed the escalation and called the strikes a direct response to the deaths. He warned that terrorists who attack Americans will face overwhelming retaliation. US forces used F-15 jets, Apache helicopters, F-16 fighters and HIMARS rocket artillery. Officials say more strikes are planned.
What makes this operation different is the government that supports it in Damascus.
Jolani: From al-Qaeda Terrorist to US-Approved Partner
The interim Syrian president is Ahmad al-Sharaa. The world knows him by another name — Jolani. He once led al-Nusra Front, the al-Qaeda faction that terrorised Syria for years. The US placed a USD 10 million bounty on his head. Western agencies linked him to suicide bombings and mass civilian killings.
Today, Jolani stands as America’s partner. His government backs the US mission. His forces share intelligence with Washington. Trump praises him as a key stabilising figure. The shift is dramatic.
The message looks clear. Washington wants to use the death of American soldiers to eliminate Jolani’s enemies. ISIS and Jolani’s faction are bitter rivals. When ISIS loses ground, Jolani gains territory and influence. The strikes weaken his competition. They strengthen his rule.
The same man once hunted as a terrorist is now treated as a state ally..
A War That Changes Masks
Operation Hawkeye Strike hit 70 sites across central Syria, destroying ISIS weapons, fighters and command centres. The firepower was intense. Yet the larger message is stronger: every ISIS position that falls increases Jolani’s hold over Syria.
Washington insists the strikes are about retaliation and security. But the battlefield map tells its own story. ISIS territory shrinks. Jolani’s influence grows. The former al-Qaeda chief, once chased across the region, now benefits directly from US military action.
