In a significant military operation, the United States, in coordination with the Kingdom of Jordan, launched a large-scale aerial assault against Islamic State (ISIS) targets in Syria on Saturday. The strikes involved a formidable array of air power and resulted in a substantial bombardment of militant infrastructure.
Massive Firepower Unleashed
According to Captain Timothy Hawkins, a spokesperson for the US military's Central Command, the operation saw about 20 Air Force attack aircraft participating. The aerial fleet included a mix of advanced platforms such as F-15E Strike Eagles, A-10 Thunderbolt II ground-attack planes, and AC-130J Ghostrider gunships. This force was further bolstered by the use of MQ-9 Reaper drones and Jordanian F-16 fighter jets, showcasing a strong international partnership in the counter-terror effort.
Scale of the Bombardment
The combined air armada fired more than 90 bombs and missiles during the mission. These precision munitions were directed at at least 35 distinct targets associated with the Islamic State network within Syrian territory. The scale of the operation indicates a carefully planned effort to degrade the militant group's operational capabilities and logistical nodes.
Context and Implications
This major strike, reported on January 11, 2026, represents a continued commitment by the US-led coalition to maintain pressure on ISIS remnants in the region. Despite losing its territorial caliphate years ago, the group continues to pose a threat through insurgent-style attacks. Operations of this magnitude are designed to disrupt its ability to plan and execute attacks, thereby enhancing regional security. The involvement of Jordan's air force underscores the shared security concerns of regional partners regarding the enduring threat of terrorism.
The US Central Command's public confirmation of the details through Capt. Hawkins highlights a transparency in reporting on such counter-terrorism activities. While the immediate damage assessment from the strikes is not detailed in the initial report, operations of this scale typically aim at command centers, weapon storage facilities, and training camps. The action reaffirms that the international coalition remains actively engaged in the long-term campaign to ensure the Islamic State cannot resurge.
