US military eliminates hostile threats in Syria
Multiple hostile weaponry targeted
The US Central Command (Centcom) successfully neutralised several dangerous weapons systems in eastern Syria on December 3, 2024, marking a decisive step in safeguarding US and coalition forces operating in the Middle East region.
The Pentagon confirmed that the strike targeted multiple hostile weaponry, including three truck-mounted multiple rocket launchers, a T-64 tank, and a series of mortars—each posing an immediate and lethal threat to US personnel stationed at the Mission Support Site (MSS) Euphrates.
According to Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Major General Pat Ryder, the operation was prompted by the launch of multiple rockets from mobile rocket systems that landed perilously close to MSS Euphrates, in addition to mortar fire directed towards US troops in the area.
“This defensive measure was taken after these weapons, which posed a direct risk to our forces, were engaged,” Ryder stated, emphasising the urgency of the threat.
While the US Department of Defence is still conducting a thorough assessment to determine the exact operatives behind the attack, Ryder noted that Iranian-backed militia groups have previously been active in the region, with a history of targeting US interests, including MSS Euphrates. The December 3 operation marked the second time in less than a week that Centcom forces have responded to threats in the area, following a similar engagement on November 29.
On that occasion, US forces employed A-10 fighter aircraft to take out a hostile target detected, preparing a rocket launch near MSS Euphrates. Ryder explained that these actions were executed solely to eliminate threats to American and coalition troops.
“The threats posed to our personnel at MSS Euphrates were neutralised, ensuring the safety of our forces in the region,” he confirmed.
When questioned by journalists about whether the recent military strikes were related to broader operations within the context of Syria’s ongoing civil war, Ryder was clear and firm.
He stressed that the US military’s actions in Syria remain centred on one primary objective: the protection of its personnel and the continuation of efforts to defeat ISIS in collaboration with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
“Our operations remain focused on the defence of our troops and our mission to support the SDF in their counter-ISIS efforts,” Ryder remarked, emphasising that the actions taken were strictly defensive and had no connection to other regional conflicts or military engagements involving other groups.
This most recent series of actions underscores the continued volatility in Syria, where US forces remain on high alert in the face of ongoing threats.
Hero image: Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder addresses journalists at the Pentagon on December 3, 2024. Credit: Pentagon
Last Updated on 1 week by Arnold Pinto
