Saudi Arabia condemns the Palmyra terrorist attack and the killing of American soldiers
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expressed the Kingdom's strong condemnation and denunciation of the treacherous terrorist attack that targeted security forces of the Syrian Arab Republic and the United States of America. The incident occurred during a joint field patrol aimed at combating terrorism near the historic city of Palmyra, resulting in a number of deaths and injuries among the participating forces.
In its official statement, the Kingdom reiterated its firm and unwavering stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, regardless of its motives or justifications. The Ministry also emphasized the Kingdom's full solidarity with the families of the victims and with the governments and peoples of both countries in this tragedy, expressing its sincere wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured and calling for intensified international efforts to eradicate the scourge of terrorism, which threatens international peace and security.
Details of the attack and casualties
In the tragic incident, two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter were killed in an attack by an ISIS militant. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the attack occurred while the forces were engaged in vital counterterrorism operations near Palmyra. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated that three other service members were wounded in the attack, while U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed that partner forces neutralized and killed the attacker at the scene.
For its part, the Syrian News Agency (SANA) reported that Syrian security forces and US forces were subjected to a surprise attack by the gunman, resulting in injuries to two members of the Syrian security forces, in addition to losses on the American side, in an incident that highlights the continuing security risks in that region.
The security context and the threat of ISIS in the desert
This attack serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by remnants of the ISIS terrorist organization in the Syrian desert. Despite the group's territorial defeat and loss of control over major cities, its sleeper cells remain active in the rugged desert areas surrounding Palmyra. These elements exploit the difficult terrain to launch hit-and-run attacks against military convoys and security checkpoints, presenting a persistent security challenge that demands constant vigilance and close international cooperation.
Strategic importance and international efforts
The city of Palmyra holds immense strategic and symbolic importance, not only as a World Heritage Site but also due to its central location within Syria. The ongoing counterterrorism operations in this region are a vital component of international efforts to ensure that extremist groups do not return to threaten regional stability. This incident underscores the necessity of continued security and military coordination to pursue terrorist elements and cut off their funding and arms supplies, a point repeatedly emphasized by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in international forums, which has stressed that eradicating terrorism requires a comprehensive and sustainable strategy.
