Washington: The US and partner forces in Syria have conducted nearly 80 operations since July to eliminate terrorist operatives, including ISIS remnants, announced the US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Wednesday. In a press release, CENTCOM highlighted the persistent threat posed by ISIS, which has inspired at least 11 plots or attacks against targets in the United States over the past year.
According to Kuwait News Agency, CENTCOM's operations have resulted in 119 terrorists being detained and 14 killed over the last six months. These efforts have significantly disrupted ISIS's plans to reconstitute and inspire terror attacks on a global scale. A notable operation in September led to the death of senior ISIS operative Omar Abdul Qader, who was actively seeking to attack the United States.
Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander, emphasized the importance of these operations, stating, "We are steadfast in our relentless pursuit of terrorists who seek to harm Americans and our interests abroad." He further explained that operations in Syria are crucial for preventing ISIS from regenerating and posing a significant threat, vowing to "root out and eliminate terrorist jihadists wherever they hide."
Last month, US military personnel from Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve collaborated with the Syrian Ministry of Interior to locate and destroy over 15 sites containing ISIS weapons caches in southern Syria. This combined operation successfully destroyed over 130 mortars and rockets, multiple rifles, machine guns, anti-tank mines, and materials for building improvised explosive devices.
Adm. Cooper noted the progress of recent collaborations with the Syrian government, stating, "We have now had multiple instances of collaboration with the Syrian government to counter specific ISIS threats." He highlighted that these are tangible security gains achieved through close cooperation with Syrian government forces.