The United States launched retaliatory strikes against ISIS targets in Syria following the killing of two American soldiers in a suspected ISIS attack on December 13. U.S. forces hit around 70 targets, including ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites, according to reports. The operation was carried out as a direct response to the attack on U.S. troops stationed in Syria, where about 1,000 American personnel are deployed. U.S. officials warned terrorist groups against targeting Americans, stressing that the strikes were meant to deliver strong retaliation and demonstrate continued resolve to protect U.S. forces.