Three American military personnel, including two army soldiers and a civilian interpreter, lost their lives in an assault on a convoy of U.S. and Syrian forces. The attacker, who was later killed, was identified as a member of the Syrian security forces, according to local officials. The incident occurred in Palmyra, Syria, during a key leader engagement activity.
The attack, suspected to be orchestrated by ISIS militants, occurred in an area outside the control of the Syrian government. The U.S. military confirmed the casualties and injuries sustained by the American soldiers, with President Donald Trump expressing his condolences and promising severe retaliation.
Syrian state media reported that two Syrian service members were injured in the incident, and they were evacuated by American helicopters to a U.S. base near the Iraqi border. The U.S. ambassador to Turkey condemned the attack and affirmed the commitment to combat terrorism alongside Syrian partners.
Syria had issued warnings about potential ISIS threats in the region, emphasizing the need for vigilance. The U.S.-led coalition has been actively conducting operations against ISIS suspects in Syria, collaborating with Syrian security forces. The presence of American troops in northeastern Syria has been part of ongoing efforts to support Kurdish-led forces in the region.