US Launches Airstrikes Against ISIS Targets in Syria

Retaliation for December attack that killed 2 US soldiers and 1 civilian

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The U.S. military has reported conducting a series of airstrikes against Islamic State group targets in Syria over the past two weeks. The strikes were in retaliation for a December ambush that killed two U.S. soldiers and one American civilian interpreter.

Why it matters

The U.S. has maintained a military presence in Syria to combat the ongoing threat of ISIS, which has carried out attacks against U.S. forces and civilians. These latest airstrikes demonstrate the U.S. military's willingness to take direct action against ISIS targets to protect American personnel and interests in the region.

The details

According to U.S. Central Command, American aircraft conducted 10 strikes against more than 30 ISIS targets between February 3 and February 9. The strikes hit weapons storage facilities and other ISIS infrastructure in Syria.

  • The airstrikes were conducted between February 3 and February 9, 2026.
  • The strikes were in retaliation for a December 2025 ambush that killed 2 U.S. soldiers and 1 American civilian interpreter.

The players

U.S. Central Command

The U.S. military's regional command responsible for operations in the Middle East, including Syria.

Islamic State group

Also known as ISIS, a militant Islamist group that has carried out attacks against U.S. forces and civilians in Syria.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

These airstrikes demonstrate the U.S. military's continued commitment to combating the ISIS threat in Syria and protecting American personnel and interests in the region, even as the group's territorial control has diminished in recent years.