Despite a public image cultivated around peace, the past year witnessed a significant escalation of U.S. military action under President Trump’s command. Nine countries and regions became targets as national security interests were aggressively pursued, marking a period of intense global engagement.
The fight against ISIS and al-Shabaab continued relentlessly, particularly in Somalia. A February airstrike decimated a network of cave complexes, eliminating 14 operatives, including Ahmed Maeleninine – a key figure responsible for funneling militants towards the U.S. and Europe. This was a direct attempt to dismantle the group’s reach.
Thousands of miles away, the Red Sea became a focal point. In response to attacks on American vessels, “Operation Rough Rider” unleashed a barrage of strikes against Iran-backed Houthi fighters in Yemen. Over 1,000 targets were hit, crippling their capabilities and ultimately leading to a ceasefire with the U.S. – though attacks on other nations continued.
Iraq also saw increased U.S. involvement. A March airstrike in Al Anbar province successfully eliminated Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, the second-in-command of ISIS, alongside another operative. This was a calculated blow against the organization’s leadership structure.
Perhaps the most controversial action was “Midnight Hammer,” a direct strike on three Iranian nuclear sites. B-2 stealth bombers and Tomahawk missiles were deployed in a coordinated assault, reportedly decimating Iran’s nuclear program and prompting a ceasefire with Israel. The operation ignited fierce debate, with accusations of escalating tensions.
Iran retaliated with a counterattack on the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, though thankfully, no casualties were reported. This exchange underscored the volatile nature of the escalating conflict and the potential for wider regional instability.
The Caribbean and Eastern Pacific became battlegrounds in “Operation Southern Spear,” a campaign targeting drug trafficking. Thirty-three strikes were launched against drug boats, resulting in over 100 deaths. This aggressive approach, however, drew criticism and accusations of potential war crimes.
Two U.S. servicemembers killed in Syria triggered “Operation Hawkeye,” a forceful response targeting ISIS infrastructure. Over 70 sites were struck with precision munitions, leading to the deaths or detention of 23 terrorist operatives. The operation was explicitly described as “a declaration of vengeance.”
Syria remained a key area of focus, with ongoing operations resulting in over 300 terrorist detentions throughout the year. These sustained efforts aimed to dismantle ISIS networks and prevent future attacks.
On Christmas night, a surprising strike unfolded in northwestern Nigeria, coordinated with the Nigerian government. President Trump stated the operation targeted ISIS militants responsible for the brutal killings of Christians, a response to escalating violence in the region.
Finally, President Trump hinted at a U.S. strike within Venezuela, targeting drug operations. He described a “major explosion” in a key implementation area, effectively neutralizing a critical hub for drug trafficking. The details remain shrouded in ambiguity, but the message was clear.
