UK and France Launch Joint Airstrikes Against IS Arms Cache in Syria

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UK and France Launch Joint Airstrikes Against IS Arms Cache in Syria

3 days ago

News sources:

SCMP

BBC

ALJAZEERA

LEMONDE

UK and France Launch Joint Airstrikes Against IS Arms Cache in Syria

Credited from: SCMP

UK and French air forces bombed a suspected arms cache used by ISIS in Syria.
The operation targeted an underground facility north of Palmyra, deemed devoid of civilians.
Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized UK's leadership in combating ISIS ideologies.
The airstrike involved RAF Typhoon jets deploying Paveway IV guided bombs.
Initial assessments indicate that the target was successfully engaged.

British and French air forces executed a joint operation on the evening of January 2, striking an underground arms cache believed to house weapons for the Islamic State group (IS). The UK’s Ministry of Defence reported that the targeted facility was located in the mountains just north of the historic site of Palmyra [SCMP, BBC, Al Jazeera, Le Monde.

The airstrikes utilized RAF Typhoon FGR4 fighter jets, with support from a Voyager refueling tanker. The Ministry of Defence stated that Paveway IV guided bombs specifically targeted access tunnels to the facility, with initial indications suggesting the operation achieved its objective without civilian casualties, as the area was reported to be uninhabited [SCMP, BBC, Al Jazeera, Le Monde.

This operation reflects the ongoing commitment of both the UK and France to counter the resurgence of IS ideologies in the Middle East. Defence Secretary John Healey remarked on the significance of the mission, emphasizing the allies' determination to collaborate in eliminating the threat posed by extremist groups [SCMP, BBC, Al Jazeera, Le Monde.