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U.S.-Led Operation Kills Senior ISIS Leader Abu Khadijah in Iraq

A precision airstrike by U.S. and Iraqi forces eliminated ISIS chief Abu Khadijah, a significant figure in the group's global operations.

Overview

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In a recent operation, U.S. Central Command and Iraqi forces executed a precision airstrike in Al Anbar Province, killing Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, also known as Abu Khadijah, who was a significant leader in ISIS’ global organization. His responsibilities included overseeing operations and logistics for the group. Both he and another ISIS operative were discovered dead at the site, equipped with unexploded suicide vests. U.S. officials, including President Trump, praised the operation and emphasized the ongoing campaign against terrorism. The action coincides with regional concerns regarding the resurgence of ISIS activities.

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Analysis

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  • US forces and Iraqi intelligence successfully conducted a precision airstrike in Iraq that killed the ISIS leader Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, known as Abu Khadijah, during a coordinated operation.
  • Al-Rifai was a significant figure in ISIS, responsible for global operations, demonstrating the ongoing efforts by US-led forces to dismantle terrorist organizations in the region.
  • The operation occurs amidst rising concerns about a resurgence of ISIS, particularly following the fall of Assad's regime in Syria, indicating the need for continued vigilance in counterterrorism efforts.

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Islamic State leader in Iraq and Syria killed, US says
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FAQ

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Abu Khadijah, also known as Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, was the chief of global operations for ISIS and served as the group's second-in-command. He was responsible for overseeing operations, logistics, and financial planning globally.

Abu Khadijah was identified through a DNA match from DNA collected during a previous raid where he narrowly escaped.

U.S. CENTCOM Commander General Michael Erik Kurilla praised the operation as a significant blow to ISIS, while Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed the operation was conducted with U.S.-led coalition support. U.S. President Donald Trump also commended the operation, emphasizing 'peace through strength'.

The death of Abu Khadijah represents a significant blow to ISIS's operations, as he was a key strategist responsible for global operations and logistics. However, ISIS continues to pose a threat through its affiliates and networks.

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