Summary
The U.S. military conducted two targeted airstrikes in Syria in September 2024, resulting in the deaths of 37 terrorists, including senior leaders from the Islamic State and Hurras al-Din, an al-Qaeda affiliate. One notable casualty was Marwan Bassam, a high-ranking official within Hurras al-Din, who was killed in a strike on September 24.
These airstrikes were part of ongoing U.S. counter-terrorism efforts in the region, aimed at disrupting the operations of terrorist groups that pose threats to U.S. interests and allies. The first airstrike targeted an ISIS training camp on September 16, eliminating 28 operatives, including four senior leaders. The second strike specifically targeted Hurras al-Din, which has emerged as a significant player in Syria’s complex landscape of militant groups. This organization, a splinter from the Nusrah Front, has been involved in ongoing conflicts with both the Syrian government and rival factions, including Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Background on Hurras al-Din
Hurras al-Din was formed by hardcore al-Qaeda loyalists after the Nusrah Front distanced itself from al-Qaeda in 2018. The group aims to conduct attacks against U.S. and Western interests and has faced challenges from both Western military operations and rival factions in Syria. The U.S. military previously targeted Hurras al-Din’s leadership, including the elimination of its operational commander, Abu-Abd al-Rahman al-Makki, in August 2024. The recent strikes are part of a broader strategy to weaken the operational capabilities of terrorist organizations in Syria.
Impact of the Airstrikes
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that these operations are intended to significantly disrupt the ability of ISIS and Hurras al-Din to conduct future attacks. CENTCOM reported that there were no indications of civilian casualties from the airstrikes, reflecting a focus on precision in military operations against these terrorist groups. The ongoing efforts highlight the complexities of the Syrian conflict and the persistent threat posed by extremist organizations in the region.
Sep. 29 / New York Post / Highlights the strategic implications of the U.S. airstrikes, providing clear context about Hurras al-Din's role in the Syrian conflict. However, it lacks the depth of background information found elsewhere. “ The US military killed 37 terrorists operating in Syria earlier this month, including multiple senior leaders of ISIS and Hurras al-Din, an affiliate of al...
U.S. Airstrikes Kill 37 Islamic State and Al-Qaeda Terrorists in Syria
Sep. 30 / Brietbart / Offers a comprehensive overview of the airstrikes, detailing both operations and the historical context of Hurras al-Din. The depth and clarity make it a valuable resource for understanding the complexities involved. “ The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Sunday that two targeted airstrikes in Syria eliminated 37 terrorists aligned with the Islamic State and al-Qaeda,...