Gunman Ambushes Convoy in Syria, Killing 3 U.S. Military Members
On Saturday, an ambush in Syria resulted in the deaths of three U.S. military members and injuries to three others. This attack targeted a convoy comprising both American and Syrian forces in the central town of Palmyra. Among those killed were two army soldiers and a civilian interpreter.
Shooting Incident Details
The Central Command of the U.S. military confirmed that the assailant was a lone gunman associated with the Syrian security forces. However, a spokesperson for Syria’s Interior Ministry clarified that he did not hold a leadership position within those forces. Following the attack, partner forces neutralized the gunman.
Background on the Attacker
Noureddine el-Baba, the ministry’s spokesperson, revealed that an evaluation had been conducted on December 10, indicating that the attacker may have had extremist views. A decision regarding his status was reportedly forthcoming the day after the attack.
Link to ISIS
U.S. officials are investigating potential links between the ambush and ISIS militants. Initial assessments suggest that the attack may have been orchestrated by ISIS, particularly as it occurred in an area not controlled by Syrian government forces. President Donald Trump responded to the incident through social media, promising retaliation against ISIS.
Casualties and Medical Evacuations
- Three U.S. military personnel killed: Two soldiers and one civilian interpreter.
- Three additional U.S. soldiers sustained injuries.
- Two Syrian personnel also reported injured.
The injured were evacuated via American helicopters to a base near Al-Tanf, close to the Iraqi border.
International Response
Tom Barrack, the U.S. ambassador to Turkey and special envoy to Syria, condemned the ambush. He expressed condolences for the fallen service members and extended wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured Syrian troops. Barrack reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to combating terrorism collaboratively with Syrian allies.
Political Context
This attack occurs shortly after Syria finalized a political cooperation agreement with the U.S.-led coalition against ISIS. This agreement coincided with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit to the White House. Recent operations by the coalition have included airstrikes and ground missions targeting suspected ISIS members, often in conjunction with Syrian security forces.
The U.S. maintains a military presence in northeastern Syria, aimed at supporting Kurdish-led forces as part of a broader initiative lasting over a decade.
