Palmyra, Syria – A joint patrol consisting of U.S. forces and Syrian security personnel came under heavy fire near the city of Palmyra in central Syria earlier today. The incident resulted in multiple casualties, including the death of two Syrian security members and injuries to others, including two U.S. personnel who sustained serious wounds.
The assailant was reportedly killed during the confrontation. Their identity and motives remain unknown at this time. U.S. helicopters were deployed to evacuate the injured to the Al-Tanf base in southern Syria.
The attack occurred while the joint delegation was conducting a field visit to assess counter-ISIS strategies in the region. As a precautionary measure, the Deir ez-Zor/Damascus road was temporarily closed, and a significant increase in U.S. aircraft activity was observed in the area, causing concern among local residents.
According to reports, the joint forces closed the road as an emergency security measure following the attack. The delegation reportedly left the area quickly, heading towards the Al-Tanf base. Security has been significantly heightened in the surrounding areas.
Eyewitnesses reported low-altitude flights by U.S. warplanes over Palmyra, accompanied by the release of flares. Syrian government forces in the area were also placed on high alert, and sounds of gunfire were heard. The increased military activity has prompted unease among some residents, particularly in the absence of official information regarding the situation.
DZWatch is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available.
