President Joe Biden confirmed on Sunday that the U.S. military conducted extensive airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria, amid major political upheaval in the country that saw President Bashar al-Assad flee to Moscow.
The U.S. Central Command deployed B-52 bombers, F-15 fighter jets, and A-10 attack aircraft to strike over 75 ISIS targets across central Syria, using approximately 140 munitions. The operation targeted ISIS leaders and operatives to prevent the terrorist group from rebuilding during Syria's current transition.
"We're clear-eyed about the fact that ISIS will try to take advantage of any vacuum to re-establish its capability to create a safe haven," Biden stated during a press briefing. "We will not let that happen."
The airstrikes coincided with dramatic developments on the ground, as Syrian rebel forces led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham captured the capital Damascus, effectively ending the Assad family's 50-year rule. The rebel offensive, which began in late November, rapidly seized control of major cities including Aleppo, Hama, and Homs before advancing into Damascus.
Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command, emphasized that any organizations supporting ISIS would be held accountable. The U.S. maintains approximately 900 troops in Syria focused on counter-ISIS operations, which Biden confirmed will remain in the country despite the recent changes in leadership.
The President also pledged support to Syria's neighbors - Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, and Israel - should any threats emerge during this period of transition.