Syria Attack

Three Americans were killed in Syria Saturday.

The killed—two Iowa Army National Guard soldiers and a civilian interpreter, whose names have not been publicly released—were ambushed near Palmyra during a key leader engagement as part of counter-ISIS operations. Three other Iowa Guard members were wounded and airlifted to a nearby garrison; two Syrian service personnel were also injured.

U.S. Central Command said the attack was carried out by a lone Islamic State-linked gunman, who was engaged and killed by partner forces. President Trump vowed “very serious retaliation” against ISIS.

The U.S. maintains about 1,000 troops in Syria as part of ongoing anti-ISIS efforts. After the fall of longtime dictator Bashar al-Assad last year, Syria’s new government pledged to work with the U.S.-led coalition to counter the group.

ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE
We live in a world marred by sin. Even as we work to promote accountability and redemption here on earth, we can rest in the knowledge that a day is coming when sin will be impossible and regret a distant memory.

“I lift my eyes toward the mountains. Where will my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.” 
Psalm 121:1-2 (CSB) (read full passage)