Daijiworld Media Network - Amman

Amman, Dec 21: The Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF) on Saturday confirmed their participation in US-led air operations targeting Islamic State (IS) positions in Syria a day earlier, underscoring continued regional cooperation against extremist groups.

In an official statement, the JAF said the strikes were carried out in coordination with the United States and were aimed at preventing extremist elements from using certain areas in Syria as bases to threaten neighbouring countries and regional security.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), American forces on Friday launched airstrikes against more than 70 locations linked to IS across central Syria. The operation was conducted in response to a recent attack in Syria that resulted in the deaths of two US service members and a civilian interpreter.

CENTCOM said the mission involved support from Jordanian fighter aircraft and the use of over 100 precision-guided munitions, targeting IS infrastructure and weapons storage sites. Reports said the strikes were part of a broader campaign to disrupt the group’s operational capabilities.

Following the operation, Syria reiterated its commitment to combating IS, stating that it would continue military actions to ensure the group does not regain safe havens within its territory. In a post on social media, Syria’s foreign affairs authority called on the United States and coalition partners to support counterterrorism efforts in a way that helps protect civilians and restore stability.

CENTCOM also noted that after the December 13 attack, US and allied forces carried out multiple operations in Syria and Iraq, leading to the killing or capture of several IS operatives. No group has officially claimed responsibility for the attack, though Syrian authorities earlier identified the assailant as linked to domestic security forces.

While IS has lost most of the territory it once controlled in Syria and Iraq, US officials maintain that remaining cells continue to pose a security threat through sporadic insurgent activity in the region.