US and Syrian forces destroy 15 Islamic State weapons caches near Damascus

Operation

Between 24 and 27 November, US military forces working with Syrian counterparts carried out airstrikes and ground detonations across Rif Dimashq province that destroyed 15 Islamic State weapons caches. US Central Command said the strikes and demolitions eliminated more than 130 mortars and rockets, alongside multiple assault rifles, machine guns, anti-tank mines and materials used to make improvised explosive devices. CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper said the operation helps "ensure gains made against ISIS are lasting."

Context and diplomacy

The action comes as Islamic State remnants continue to regroup after being largely defeated by a US-led coalition several years ago. The strikes also follow diplomacy between US President Donald Trump and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa — a former al-Qaida commander who until recently was sanctioned by Washington — during talks on 10 November. Damascus said it had conducted pre-emptive nationwide operations against IS cells ahead of the meeting; Sharaa sought removal of the toughest US sanctions, and the US Treasury announced a 180-day extension of the suspension of enforcement of the Caesar sanctions, though only Congress can lift them entirely, as reported by The Independent