The U.S.-led coalition ramped up efforts against the Islamic State (ISIS) with multiple military operations conducted across Iraq and Syria from December 30, 2024, to January 6, 2025. These concerted actions, aimed at dismantling ISIS strongholds and thwarting the group's potential resurgence, were carried out alongside Iraqi forces and other partners.
Significant airstrikes were executed primarily in the Hamrin Mountains region of Iraq. The coalition deployed advanced aircraft, including F-16s, F-15s, and A-10s, targeting entrenched ISIS militants. Notably, A-10s were instrumental during these strikes where they successfully neutralized fighters who were hiding within caves. Nevertheless, the operations were not without casualties: one member of the multinational coalition was killed, and two others sustained injuries. Fortunately, no U.S. personnel were harmed during the engagements.
According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), these military actions faced opposition from ISIS fighters but achieved significant tactical victories. Operations not only disrupted ISIS's planning capabilities but also aimed to prevent future attacks on civilians and coalition forces. A coalition spokesperson reported, "The enduring defeat of ISIS is a global effort," emphasizing the role of international partners.
General Michael Erik Kurilla, the CENTCOM commander, underscored the importance of these partnered operations. "Partnered operations like these arecritical to maintaining pressure on ISIS and preventing the terrorist group from taking advantage of the rapidly changing security environment in the region," he stated. This highlights the multi-faceted approach the coalition is taking amid growing concerns over ISIS's potential resurgence.
While operations were intensive on the Iraqi front, developments were significant across the Syrian border as well. Concurrently, from January 2 to 3, operations led by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), with support from CENTCOM, focused on ISIS cells near Dayr az-Zawr. These efforts culminated in the capture of an ISIS attack cell leader, marking another operational success against the terrorist group.
Despite the coalition's successes, the broader geopolitical climate remains troubling. Following the recent collapse of the Syrian government under Bashar al-Assad, various extremist groups, including ISIS and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), are exploiting the political void. The resultant instability presents new challenges for American forces and their allies, as they continue to monitor and respond to shifting threats.
Currently, the U.S. maintains about 2,500 troops stationed in Iraq and around 2,000 personnel deployed within Syria. The operations conducted recently affirm the coalition's commitment to combating the enduring threat posed by ISIS. The Pentagon has previously stated the aim is to prevent any resurgence of ISIS, which maintains residual capabilities to conduct attacks.
Experts express concern over the Islamic State’s ability to regroup and adapt within the newly chaotic environment, with strategies being formulated to counteract any potential resurgence. Recent history indicates these groups often capitalize on periods of political instability to strengthen their positions.
Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh reiterated the importance of U.S. presence and operator partnerships saying, "The entire mission of our force presence there is toensure the enduring defeat of ISIS." She stressed the goal is to prevent the terrorist organization from reconstituting its former strength.
On the home front, the discussions surrounding the U.S. military presence echo broader sentiments of reducing foreign troop footprints among some Iraqi officials. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani faces domestic pressures relating to the size of the U.S. military presence. Nonetheless, apprehension about ISIS's capability to leverage the tumultuous environment persists as Iraqi officials advocate for continued U.S. partnerships.
The commitment to the counter-ISIS operations by the U.S.-led coalition will remain of utmost importance as they navigate through the complex security arenas of both Iraq and Syria. Beyond defeating immediate threats, the coalition’s operational philosophy emphasizes collaboration with local forces to achieve sustainable security outcomes.
The initiatives under Operation Inherent Resolve are scheduled to continue until September 2025, with future arrangements likely reflecting both the on-ground realities and political landscapes shaped by recent developments. The multinational collaboration speaks to the concerted effort necessary to face the challenges of radical extremism and secure long-lasting peace and stability across the region.