We’ve Killed al-Qaeda Affiliate Leader Linked to Deadly Syria Ambush, Claims US

We’ve Killed al-Qaeda Affiliate Leader Linked to Deadly Syria Ambush, Claims US

U.S. military has conducted an airstrike in northwestern Syria, killing Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, a high-ranking al-Qaeda-affiliated leader.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the operation as part of an ongoing mission to dismantle extremist networks in the region.

Officials linked al-Jasim to a deadly December 2025 ambush in Palmyra that killed two American soldiers and an interpreter. Although affiliated with al-Qaeda, he reportedly maintained close ties with the ISIS militants responsible for that specific attack.

Following the ambush, President Donald Trump promised severe retaliation for the American casualties.

General Brad Cooper, head of CENTCOM, reinforced this stance, declaring that the U.S. will ensure there is “no safe place” for those targeting its citizens.

Since the retaliatory campaign began last month, U.S. forces have struck over 100 ISIS-linked sites and infrastructure. Over the past year, operations in Syria have also resulted in the capture of more than 300 operatives and the deaths of dozens more.

These strikes occur as Syria’s new government, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, attempts to stabilize the country following Bashar al-Assad’s removal.

The U.S. remains committed to a counter-terrorism presence to prevent extremist groups from exploiting the current political transition.