Palmyra, Syria – December 14, 2025.
Two American soldiers and one civilian american interpreter were killed in Syria After being ambushed on Saturday by a gunman believed to be affiliated with ISISAccording to US defense officials. A fatal incident occurred near palm treeIn which three additional US service members were injured.
The attack has renewed concerns over the threat posed by ISIS remnants in the region.
What happened
According to the Pentagon, this attack happened on Saturday Palmyra, SyriaWhen US personnel were attacked by a lone gunman believed to be linked to ISISDuring the confrontation, the gunman opened fire, killing two american soldiers and a Civilian interpreter working with the US military,
Secretary of Defense pete hegseth It was confirmed that the suspected ISIS attacker was later killed during a clash. partner force Working with American soldiers. Pentagon spokesperson shaun parnell Three other service members were injured in the attack. Two US officials told ABC News that all three injured people are Americans.
Who were the victims?
someone’s identification two american soldiers and this civilian american interpreter Has not been released yet, pending notification of next of kin. All three were supporting US military operations aimed at countering ISIS activity in Syria and maintaining regional stability.
Civilian interpreters play a vital role in overseas missions, often working with troops in hazardous environments. Their deaths underscore the risks faced not only by uniformed service members but also by civilians supporting U.S. military efforts.
Mission context and security concerns
Although ISIS no longer controls as much territory as it once did, US officials have repeatedly warned that the group is still capable of deadly attacksParticularly through lone-actor attacks and small-cell operations.
syria ambush Highlights the persistent threat faced by U.S. forces and their allies operating in unstable regions. The strategically important region of Palmyra has seen ISIS activity before, despite years of counter-terrorism operations.
Public and government reactions
Senior defense officials expressed condolences to the families of those killed and praised the bravery of US troops and allied forces involved in the response.
Although no formal public statement has yet been issued by the White House, the Pentagon stressed that the incident remains under investigation and force protection measures are being reviewed.
what happens next
Department of Defense The circumstances surrounding the attack remain under investigation, including the affiliation of the gunman and how the ambush was carried out. The conditions of the three injured service members have not been publicly updated.
US officials say the campaign against ISIS will continue and that additional security measures may be implemented to protect personnel in Syria.
deaths of Two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter in Syria This is a sobering reminder of the ongoing risks associated with global counterterrorism missions.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
