B-52 Stratofortress strategic bombers arrives in CENTCOM area of responsibility, November 3, 2024. (US CENTCOM)
Over the past 60 days, US Central Command (CENTCOM) has been working hard to curb ISIS’s influence and operations across Iraq and Syria, pushing back against remnants of the group that, despite its major defeats in 2019, still poses a significant threat to the region.
CENTCOM released on Monday, November 4, a report detailing 95 operations against ISIS, some of which were US-only strikes in Syria, showing a solid commitment to keeping ISIS from regrouping.
The results? An impressive tally of 163 militants killed and 33 captured, including some high-ranking leaders.
What stands out here is not just the sheer numbers but also the impact these operations are having on ISIS’s ability to launch attacks.
According to CENTCOM, the sustained pressure on ISIS has made it tougher for the group to plan and coordinate its movements.
Alongside Iraqi and Syrian security forces, American troops have seized large amounts of enemy material, which could be useful for further dismantling the group’s operations.
US Commander Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla emphasized that the military would keep pressing ISIS to prevent them from posing a threat to the US and its allies in the region.
Over the past 60 days, US Central Command (CENTCOM) has been working hard to curb ISIS’s influence and operations across Iraq and Syria, pushing back against remnants of the group that, despite its major defeats in 2019, still poses a significant threat to the region.
CENTCOM released on Monday, November 4, a report detailing 95 operations against ISIS, some of which were US-only strikes in Syria, showing a solid commitment to keeping ISIS from regrouping.
The results? An impressive tally of 163 militants killed and 33 captured, including some high-ranking leaders.
What stands out here is not just the sheer numbers but also the impact these operations are having on ISIS’s ability to launch attacks.
According to CENTCOM, the sustained pressure on ISIS has made it tougher for the group to plan and coordinate its movements.
Alongside Iraqi and Syrian security forces, American troops have seized large amounts of enemy material, which could be useful for further dismantling the group’s operations.
US Commander Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla emphasized that the military would keep pressing ISIS to prevent them from posing a threat to the US and its allies in the region.
The campaign against ISIS in Iraq and Syria isn’t a one-off; it’s an ongoing mission aimed at ensuring that ISIS doesn’t get a chance to rise again.
Notably, the report highlighted a late October attack on ISIS camps in the Syrian desert, where US forces took out as many as 35 militants, including several senior leaders. This was a significant operation because it struck at the leadership core of ISIS, disrupting their chain of command and making it harder for them to organize.
However, this operation wasn’t without risks—two US service members were injured due to an explosion and were later transported to Walter Reed Medical Center for treatment.
Despite such dangers, American forces remain steadfast, with about 900 troops in Syria and another 2,500 in Iraq, focused on a joint counter-ISIS mission alongside local partners.
New Air Power in the Middle East: B-52s and More
As if CENTCOM’s ongoing operations weren’t enough of a signal, the Pentagon recently made another big move by deploying six B-52 Stratofortress bombers to the Middle East.
This is the first time since 2019 that these bombers have returned to the region, underscoring the US’s intent to maintain a robust presence.
The B-52s bring a massive range of strike capabilities, acting as both a show of force and a serious deterrent against potential threats, especially given the rising tensions with Iran.
These B-52s join additional US assets, including F-15E Strike Eagles and aerial refueling tankers, to compensate for the upcoming departure of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group.
With Iran making aggressive moves and threatening US interests in the region, this added airpower is a proactive step to protect allies and maintain stability.
It’s also worth noting that earlier in October, the Pentagon deployed F-16s and KC-46 Pegasus tankers to further enhance its air operations in the Middle East.
The goal here is not just about deterrence but also ensuring that the US and its allies can respond quickly to any escalation.
A Strong and Adaptable Defense Posture
The CENTCOM report and recent B-52 deployment both reflect a US strategy of keeping ISIS on the defensive while staying prepared for broader regional challenges.
The Pentagon has made it clear that it is ready to respond to potential threats from Iran, with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin affirming that the US will protect its personnel and interests in the Middle East “by any means necessary.”
The Middle East remains a complex and evolving theater of operations for the US, and both the ground campaign against ISIS and the air deployments underscore the importance of adaptability in maintaining a stable presence there.
The 95 counter-ISIS operations, recent B-52 deployments, and advanced defense systems show a clear commitment to regional security. As CENTCOM and its partners target ISIS leaders and disrupt operations, the US is firmly resolved to handle lingering threats decisively.
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