Islamic terrorists who had been holding eight people hostage in Yemen probably were feeling fairly smug about themselves earlier this month. After all, they and others of their ilk often operate with near-impunity in that region.

Then about two dozen U.S. commandos in company with Yemeni troops swooped down on the terrorists. Seven of them were killed. All eight hostages, including six Yemenis, one Saudi Arabian and one Ethiopian, were rescued.

Though U.S. officials have been tight-lipped about the operation, there has been no report of American casualties.

No doubt some will criticize the operation. No Americans were among the hostages, after all.

But striking at Islamic terrorist groups under virtually any circumstances is in Americans’ best interest. Organizations such as al-Qaida and the Islamic State are dedicated to killing Americans whenever they get the chance.

Of course, U.S. leaders must be very cautious in authorizing operations such as that in Yemen. But where they are practical, they seem a good way to strike terrorists before they can hit us.