US airstrike in Northwest Syria eliminates senior leader of terrorist group VIDEO

On February 23, US Central Command (CENTCOM) forces carried out a precision airstrike in Northwest Syria, resulting in the death of Muhammed Yusuf Ziya Talay, the senior military leader of the terrorist group Hurras al-Din (HaD), an affiliate of Al-Qaeda.

“As we have said in the past, we will continue to relentlessly pursue these terrorists in order to defend our homeland, and U.S., allied, and partner personnel in the region,” said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander, US Central Command, Caliber.Az reports via CENTCOM's message on X.

CENTCOM Forces Kill the Senior Military Leader of Al-Qaeda Affiliate Hurras al-Din (HaD) in Syria

On Feb. 23, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted a precision airstrike in Northwest Syria, targeting and killing Muhammed Yusuf Ziya Talay, the senior military leader of… pic.twitter.com/trhDvgdgne

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 1, 2025

The targeted operation successfully eliminated a key figure in HaD, a group responsible for numerous attacks in the region. Talay’s death marks a significant blow to the group’s leadership and operations, disrupting their ability to plan and execute further attacks. 

This airstrike is part of CENTCOM’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and ensure regional stability. In collaboration with partners in the Middle East, the US military continues to focus on neutralizing threats posed by terrorist organisations that target both civilian populations and military personnel. 

CENTCOM has stressed that these operations are essential to thwarting the planning and coordination of attacks against the US, its allies, and partners in the region and beyond. A spokesperson for CENTCOM confirmed the operation, stating that it reflects the US military's unwavering commitment to countering terrorism and safeguarding global security. 

The death of Talay is seen as a critical step in weakening the operational capabilities of HaD and its affiliates. As efforts to eliminate terrorist threats in Syria continue, US forces, alongside regional partners, remain vigilant in their pursuit of those who seek to destabilise the region and threaten international peace.

By Naila Huseynova