Overview
- CENTCOM announced that a precision airstrike on June 19 killed Ali Husayn al‑’Ulaywi, whom U.S. officials identified as a senior Islamic State leader operating in northwest Syria.
- CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper framed the strike as part of a sustained effort to disrupt militants who could attack Americans and said U.S. forces and partners will continue targeting remaining ISIS elements.
- The operation comes as the U.S. has reduced its on‑the‑ground footprint in Syria, with the Pentagon inspector general reporting the final U.S. base in the country closed in April.
- Reporting indicates ISIS has shifted to sleeper cells and small networks that still carry out attacks and that outlets say the group claimed a renewed campaign beginning in February aimed at Syrian President Ahmed al‑Sharaa.
- Beyond removing a senior commander, the strike highlights how U.S. counterterrorism work now relies on precision strikes, intelligence sharing, and partner cooperation and could lead to more targeted actions and local security operations in the coming weeks.