Shots were fired at U.S. and Syrian forces on March 16, 2024, during an American troop visit to the historic town of Palmyra, resulting in several injuries. According to Syria’s state-run SANA news agency, two members of Syria’s security forces and multiple U.S. service members were wounded in the attack. The injured personnel were subsequently evacuated by helicopters to the al-Tanf garrison, located near the borders of Iraq and Jordan.
SANA reported that the attacker was killed, though further details about the incident remain scarce. A U.S. defense official confirmed awareness of the reports but declined to provide additional information, citing a lack of authorization to speak publicly. The official spoke on condition of anonymity.
According to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, at least three Syrian security personnel sustained injuries, alongside several Americans. The Observatory identified the assailant as a member of the Syrian security forces, highlighting the complexities of the situation in the region.
The presence of U.S. troops in Syria has been part of a broader coalition effort against the Islamic State group, with hundreds of American service members deployed in the eastern part of the country. The incident underscores ongoing tensions in a region where U.S. forces have previously been targeted. Notably, a deadly attack in 2019 in the northern town of Manbij resulted in the deaths of two U.S. service members and two American civilians during a patrol.
Context of U.S. Forces in Syria
In recent developments, Syria has joined the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group, reflecting a shift in relations with Western countries following the fall of President Bashar Assad. This change comes after insurgents captured Assad’s seat of power in Damascus last year, leading to a reevaluation of Syria’s position in the region.
U.S. troops have maintained a presence in various parts of Syria, including the al-Tanf garrison in the central province of Homs. Their mission primarily involves training local forces as part of the international campaign against IS. Despite this, U.S. personnel have faced significant risks, as attacks have occurred previously, emphasizing the volatile environment in which they operate.
As of now, investigations into the recent shooting are likely to take place, aiming to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident and assess the impact on U.S. military operations in the region. The evolving dynamics in Syria continue to pose challenges for both local and international forces engaged in the fight against terrorism.
