Military jets, including F-16s, F-15s, and A-10s, launch attacks against ISIS positions in Iraq.
Blastin' 'Em Away: The Ongoing Battle Against ISIS
The U.S.-led coalition and Iraqi forces have been ramping up their assault on Islamic State (ISIS) fighters, with a recent confrontation deep within an Iraqi cave. U.S. Central Command confirmed this on January 6, detailing airstrikes against ISIS in Iraq's Hamrin Mountains by F-16 and F-15 jets. Supporting ground forces, U.S. Air Force A-10s successfully targeted and eliminated ISIS militants within the cave.
Unfortunately, the operation unfortunately claimed the life of one member from the multinational coalition, while two others were injured. Central Command failed to disclose the nationality of the casualties, stating that no American personnel were harmed.
The intensified operations against ISIS aren't just about clearing out hideouts. There are growing concerns that the terrorist organization is trying to regain strength, especially amid the chaos following the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar Al Assad.
Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla, commander of Central Command, emphasized the importance of these partnered operations. He stated, "These operations are crucial for maintaining pressure on ISIS and preventing them from exploiting the fast-changing security landscape in the region. The global mission to defeat ISIS requires collaboration with our allies, partners, and the Coalition."
Operation Inherent Resolve, the name given to the coalition's campaign against ISIS in Iraq and Syria, is scheduled to end in September 2025. Following this, an arrangement between the U.S. and Iraq is expected to continue. Currently, approximately 2,500 U.S. troops are stationed in Iraq as part of the war effort against the Islamic State group. Although numbers may decrease under the new arrangement, the specifics remain undisclosed due to potential influences from events in Syria.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani is facing domestic political pressure to decrease the U.S. presence, yet concerns about a possible ISIS comeback remain.
Meanwhile, recent operations against ISIS weren’t limited to Iraq. On January 2 and 3, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), America's partner group in Syria, conducted an anti-ISIS mission "supported by CENTCOM forces" in Deir Ez Zor, eastern Syria. This operation resulted in the capture of a key ISIS leader.
The U.S. currently has around 2,000 troops in Syria, focusing on supporting the SDF against ISIS forces. Recently, there have been airstrikes in regions previously controlled by the Assad regime and Russian forces.
Although the Islamic State's self-proclaimed caliphate was defeated in 2019, efforts to prevent the group from regaining power continue. According to Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, "ISIS still holds capabilities, as demonstrated by recent activities in Iraq and Syria, and that's why we have forces in both countries to ensure ISIS remains incapable of reconstructing or regaining momentum to what it once was just a decade ago."
On New Year's Day, an army veteran staged a deadly truck-ramming attack in New Orleans, announcing his allegiance to ISIS. President Biden noted that the veteran was "inspired" by ISIS; however, no evidence has been presented indicating ISIS direct involvement or contact with the terrorist.
Soaring over the Fight Against ISIS: A Closer Look
As of June 2025, the U.S. continues to battle ISIS in Iraq and Syria, albeit with adjustments in military presence and air operations.
Iraq
In Iraq, U.S. forces contribute to Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) with intelligence, air support, and training to hinder ISIS's resurgence. Large-scale U.S. air campaigns like those seen at the height of the anti-ISIS campaign are no longer common, but the U.S. retains the capacity for air strikes if needed.
Syria
In Syria, the U.S. is reducing its military presence, with initial troop reductions of around 600 personnel. Closures of certain bases and gaining focus on key locations with large numbers of ISIS detainees are happening. U.S. airstrikes and intelligence sharing continue to play a role in countering ISIS activity. Although the frequency and scale of these air operations have decreased compared to previous years, recent discussions revolve around further drawdowns and base closures.
| Country | U.S. Air Operations Status | Notes ||---------|--------------------------|-------|| Iraq | Limited, supporting ISF | Mainly intelligence, training, and occasional air support; no large-scale campaigns reported. || Syria | Reduced, targeted strikes | Troop and base reductions; focus on al-Tanf, Hasaka, and detainee security; airstrikes as needed. |
- The U.S. Air Force continues to play a significant role in the ongoing fight against ISIS, as demonstrated by the recent airstrikes conducted in Iraq's Hamrin Mountains.
- Politicians and military leaders, such as Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla, acknowledge the importance of maintaining a strong presence in the region for the sake of security and preventing ISIS from regaining momentum.
- The Pentagon has emphasized that despite the defeat of ISIS's self-proclaimed caliphate in 2019, the terrorist organization still holds capabilities and poses a threat, necessitating continued air operations and a military presence in both Iraq and Syria.
- The scope of air operations against ISIS isn't limited to traditional war-and-conflicts zones; as demonstrated by the recent operation in Deir Ez Zor, Syria, such operations can be part of general news and political discussions around global security and politics.
