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The United Kingdom and France carried out a joint airstrike targeting an underground Daesh facility in central Syria, the British government said Saturday.
The strike was conducted as part of ongoing efforts to prevent the militant group from rebuilding its capabilities following its military defeat in 2019.
According to the U.K. Ministry of Defense, Royal Air Force aircraft identified an underground facility located in mountainous terrain several miles north of the ancient city of Palmyra.
British officials said intelligence assessments indicated the site was used by Daesh, most likely for storing weapons and explosives.
The ministry added that the surrounding area was devoid of civilian habitation.
RAF Typhoon FGR4 fighter jets, supported by a Voyager refueling tanker, joined French aircraft in the operation on the evening of Saturday, Jan. 3.
British Defense Secretary John Healey said the strike demonstrated the U.K.’s commitment to working alongside allies to prevent a resurgence of Daesh.
“This action shows our U.K. leadership and determination to stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies to stamp out any resurgence of Daesh and their dangerous and violent ideologies in the Middle East,” Healey said in a statement.
He added that the operation underscored the readiness of British armed forces to respond to threats throughout the year.
The U.K. Defense Ministry said RAF aircraft used Paveway IV precision-guided bombs to target access tunnels leading to the underground facility.
While a detailed damage assessment is ongoing, officials said initial indications showed the target was successfully engaged.
The ministry stated there was no indication that civilians were put at risk during the strike, and all aircraft returned safely.
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