New details are emerging following a deadly attack near Palmyra, Syria, on Saturday. The incident resulted in the deaths of two US soldiers and an American translator, while also raising questions about security coordination in the region.
The Pentagon confirmed the attack, stating that it occurred during a meeting between US military personnel and local leaders. Initial reports indicate that three other individuals were wounded in the assault. US Central Command described the assailant as a lone ISIS operative who ambushed a US patrol before being neutralized.
A Syrian security source stated that an individual linked to ISIS cells targeted the outer security detail protecting the American military leadership. A firefight ensued between the security personnel and the attacker, resulting in the attacker’s death. The source emphasized that the attacker did not gain access to the room where the American leaders were meeting.
The Wall Street Journal, citing a US official, reported that the attack transpired during a meeting between a US officer and a Syrian Interior Ministry official in Palmyra. The official stated that “the lone gunman appeared from a window and opened fire, and US and Syrian forces returned fire and killed him.”
In the aftermath of the attack, US forces have reportedly increased their presence and patrols in the area. This move aims to bolster security and prevent future incidents.
Adding another layer of complexity, Syrian state media quoted a spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, Nour al-Din al-Baba, who stated that prior warnings were issued to the international coalition regarding potential ISIS attacks. Al-Baba claimed that these warnings were not adequately addressed. He further stated that the attack occurred at the entrance of a fortified headquarters belonging to the Internal Security leadership, following a joint tour between the two sides. He affirmed that the attacker did not hold any leadership position within any organization.
The incident near Palmyra underscores the persistent threat posed by ISIS remnants in the region and highlights the challenges in maintaining security and stability. The attack is likely to further strain relations between the US and Syrian governments.
