The Pentagon confirmed that two U.S. Army soldiers and one civilian American interpreter were killed during an ISIS-linked ambush in Palmyra, Syria, while three other Americans were wounded. The attack marks the first U.S. combat fatalities in Syria since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.

According to officials, the ambush was carried out by a lone gunman and was swiftly neutralized on-site by Syrian partner forces assisting U.S. counterterrorism operations. Approximately 900 American troops remain in Syria, focused on anti-ISIS missions, despite prior statements from President Donald Trump advocating reduced U.S. involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts.

The Pentagon emphasized that the attack was an isolated incident, and there is currently no indication of a broader coordinated threat to U.S. forces in the area. The wounded personnel have been evacuated and are receiving medical care.

This incident highlights the persistent threat posed by ISIS remnants in Syria, even after significant changes in regional governance. U.S. officials reaffirmed their commitment to supporting local partners in counterterrorism efforts while maintaining force protection measures for American personnel.

Further updates, including the identities of the fallen and condition of the wounded, will be released once families have been notified and details verified. The Pentagon is coordinating closely with Syrian partners and other coalition forces in the wake of the attack.