Statement by Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook on Coalition Airstrik

Department of Defense

Statement by Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook on Coalition Airstrike in Syria

Press Operations

Release No: NR-329-16
Sept. 17, 2016

The Department of Defense continues to gather information on a coalition airstrike in Syria earlier today. While we are still trying to determine all the facts, if we mistakenly struck a Syrian military position we regret doing so, especially the loss of lives.

As Centcom previously disclosed, the coalition aircraft conducting the mission believed they were striking ISIL forces near Dayr Az Zawr. In addition, the coalition air operations center earlier in the day notified Russian officials that coalition aircraft would be operating in that area, and no concerns were voiced at that time.

We will review all aspects of this strike to determine what if any lessons should be learned. In the meantime, the coalition's effort will remain focused on delivering ISIL a lasting defeat.