Significant Operation Leads to Death of ISIS Leader in Iraq
In a notable victory against terrorism, Iraqi national intelligence, in collaboration with U.S.-led coalition forces, successfully eliminated the head of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) during an operation conducted on Thursday in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
Details of the Operation
The targeted individual, Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, commonly referred to as “Abu Khadija,” was described by officials as a key figure within ISIS, holding the position of “deputy caliph.” Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani declared the operation a testament to Iraq’s ongoing commitment to combating terrorism, stating, “The Iraqis continue their impressive victories over the forces of darkness and terrorism.”
According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the mission involved a precise airstrike that resulted in the deaths of Abu Khadija and another ISIS operative. CENTCOM provided aerial footage of the strike, demonstrating the operation’s effectiveness.
Identification and Aftermath
Following the airstrike, U.S. and Iraqi forces recovered the deceased militants, who were found wearing unexploded suicide vests and equipped with various firearms. DNA evidence obtained from a previous raid aided in confirming Abu Khadija’s identity. General Michael Erik Kurilla, the commander of CENTCOM, underscored the importance of this operation, emphasizing the commitment to dismantling terrorist networks threatening regional and global security.
International and Regional Implications
This operation coincides with a critical visit by Syria’s foreign minister to Iraq, during which both nations reinforced their commitment to collaboratively address the threats posed by ISIS. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein acknowledged the shared challenges faced by Iraqi and Syrian societies and elaborated on discussions concerning the movements of ISIS along their mutual border.
The diplomatic discussions emphasized the establishment of an operations room involving Iraq, Syria, Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon to tackle the ongoing threats from ISIS.
Concerns Over Rising Terrorism Risks
As Iraq strives to maintain control over security within its borders, concerns loom regarding a potential resurgence of ISIS. The fallout from the recent political changes in Syria has led to reassessments among Iraqi political leaders regarding the threat level posed by ISIS, with discussions about the future role of U.S. forces in the region also on the table.
Reflecting on the changing circumstances, Iraqi officials voiced their worries about the resurgence of terrorist activities following the fall of former President Bashar Assad in Syria, particularly given the presence of groups such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which have engaged with ISIS remnants.
