Britain has launched a precision missile strike against Islamic State positions in Syria, working in tandem with the French air force, the Ministry of Defence confirmed. RAF Typhoon FGR4 fighter jets deployed Paveway IV guided bombs to destroy access tunnels leading into an underground facility north of the ancient ruins of Palmyra on Saturday evening. The MoD said intelligence indicated the bunker had been used to store weapons and explosives, and no civilians were in the area at the time of the strike.
The operation involved British Typhoons, French aircraft, and a Voyager refuelling tanker, highlighting a high level of coordination between allied forces. A detailed assessment of the damage is underway, but the MoD described the strike as successful. Defence Secretary John Healey said the action demonstrated Britain’s commitment to working closely with allies to prevent any resurgence of Islamic State. He added that the operation “shows how our armed forces are ready to step up, all year round, keeping Britain secure at home and strong abroad.”
Islamic State has been largely in retreat in Syria since its defeat at Baghuz Fawqani in March 2019, when Syrian Defence Forces, backed by British and American airstrikes, artillery, and special forces, eliminated the group’s last significant stronghold. Since then, the RAF has carried out regular aerial patrols and targeted interventions, including the elimination of known ISIS operatives via Reaper drones and Typhoon strikes.
The recent British-led strike comes amid heightened Western military activity in the region. Last month, the United States conducted dozens of airstrikes on ISIS targets in Syria following the group’s killing of three Americans near Palmyra. While the group has been weakened in Syria, it continues to find footholds elsewhere, with U.S. forces carrying out recent operations in Somalia and Nigeria against ISIS affiliates.