Palmyra, Syria — December 14, 2025.
Two U.S. soldiers and one civilian U.S. interpreter were killed in Syria on Saturday after being ambushed by a gunman believed to be affiliated with ISIS, according to U.S. defense officials. The deadly incident occurred near Palmyra, with three additional U.S. service members injured.
The attack has reignited concerns over the ongoing threat posed by ISIS remnants in the region.
What Happened
According to the Pentagon, the ambush took place Saturday in Palmyra, Syria, when U.S. personnel were attacked by a lone gunman believed to be linked to ISIS. During the confrontation, the gunman opened fire, killing two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter working with U.S. forces.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the suspected ISIS attacker was later killed during a skirmish by partner forces operating alongside U.S. troops. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said three other service members were wounded in the attack. Two U.S. officials told ABC News that all three injured individuals are American.
Who Were the Victims?
The identities of the two U.S. soldiers and the civilian U.S. interpreter have not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. All three were supporting U.S. military operations in Syria aimed at countering ISIS activity and maintaining regional stability.
Civilian interpreters play a critical role in overseas missions, often operating alongside troops in dangerous environments. Their deaths underscore the risks faced not only by uniformed service members but also by civilians supporting U.S. military efforts.
Mission Context and Security Concerns
Although ISIS no longer controls territory as it once did, U.S. officials have repeatedly warned that the group remains capable of carrying out deadly attacks, particularly through lone-actor assaults and small-cell operations.
The Syria ambush highlights the persistent danger faced by U.S. forces and their partners operating in volatile regions. Palmyra, a strategically significant area, has previously seen ISIS activity despite years of counterterrorism operations.
Public and Government Reactions
Senior defense officials expressed condolences to the families of those killed and praised the bravery of U.S. troops and partner forces involved in the response.
While no formal public statement has yet been issued by the White House, the Pentagon emphasized that the incident remains under investigation and that force protection measures are being reviewed.
What Happens Next
The Department of Defense is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, including the gunman’s affiliations and how the ambush was carried out. The condition of the three injured service members has not been publicly updated.
U.S. officials say operations against ISIS will continue, and additional security measures may be implemented to protect personnel in Syria.
The deaths of two U.S. soldiers and a civilian interpreter in Syria mark a sobering reminder of the ongoing risks tied to global counterterrorism missions.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
