Joint CENTCOM and Coalition Operations in Syria and Iraq Aimed at Destroying ISIS

The United States Central Command announced on Monday that CENTCOM and coalition forces executed operations from December 30, 2024, to January 6, 2025, in a joint effort to completely eliminate ISIS in Iraq and Syria. According to CENTCOM, during this period, U.S. Army and international coalition forces, with the assistance of Iraqi forces, conducted extensive attacks in the Hamrin Mountains of Iraq, targeting known ISIS positions in these mountains. In this operation, ground forces, supported by Air Force fighter jets, destroyed ISIS fighters hiding in caves and eliminated the group's ability to plan, organize, and carry out attacks against civilians, allies, and the United States throughout the region. The report stated that during this operation, one coalition member was killed, and two soldiers from different countries were injured, but there was no damage to personnel or equipment. CENTCOM also added that on January 2 and 3, Syrian Democratic Forces, with CENTCOM's assistance, conducted operations against ISIS near Deir ez-Zor, Syria, which led to the arrest of one of the group's leaders. CENTCOM emphasized that 'conducting joint operations is vital to maintaining pressure on ISIS and preventing this terrorist group from exploiting regional conditions,' noting that 'the complete defeat of ISIS is a global effort, and the United States Central Command is committed to pursuing and destroying those terrorists who threaten the region, our allies, and our citizens.' Earlier this year, CENTCOM also eliminated dozens of ISIS members in joint operations in Iraq and Syria and captured some commanders of the group. CENTCOM is one of eleven unified combatant commands of the U.S. Department of Defense, with its area of responsibility including the Middle East, Egypt, Central Asia, and parts of South Asia.