Three Killed in Suspected Islamic State Attack on U.S. Convoy in Syria

Three Killed in Suspected Islamic State Attack on U.S. Convoy in Syria
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Two U.S. Army soldiers and a civilian interpreter were killed in a shooting attack on a joint convoy of American and Syrian forces in central Syria on Saturday, Reuters reported. The U.S. military said the attacker, believed to be linked to Islamic State, targeted the convoy before being shot dead by partner forces.

U.S. Central Command said three American soldiers were also wounded in the attack, which occurred during a meeting with local leaders in the historic town of Palmyra. Initial assessments by U.S. officials suggest Islamic State was likely responsible, although the group has not claimed the assault. The area where the incident occurred is outside direct control of the Syrian government.

Syrian officials said the attacker was a member of the country’s security forces but did not hold a leadership position. A spokesperson for Syria’s Interior Ministry stated that authorities had previously flagged the individual for possible extremist views and were due to take action shortly before the attack.

U.S. President Donald Trump condemned the incident and pledged a strong response, calling the deaths a tragic loss. Syrian state media reported that two Syrian personnel were injured and evacuated by U.S. helicopters. The attack comes weeks after Syria announced a political cooperation agreement with the U.S.-led coalition against Islamic State.