The head of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria has been killed in an operation by Iraqi intelligence and U.S. forces, according to Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. This development coincided with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaybani’s visit to Iraq, where both countries pledged to work together against IS. Tensions exist between Iraq and Syria due to the changing political dynamics in the region, prompting reevaluations of security strategies against IS resurgence.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced the death of Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, also known as “Abu Khadija,” who was the head of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. The operation leading to his death involved the Iraqi intelligence service and U.S.-led coalition forces, and was confirmed after an airstrike in Anbar province. Al-Sudani stated, “The Iraqis continue their impressive victories over the forces of darkness and terrorism.”
The announcement coincided with the historic visit of Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaybani to Iraq, where both nations committed to collaborating against IS threats. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein highlighted common challenges against IS and mentioned a collaborative operations room formed by Iraq, Syria, Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon to combat the group.
Despite the fraught relationship resulting from the power dynamics following the Assad regime’s fall, officials from both countries emphasized their shared history and cooperation. Al-Shibani remarked that strengthening ties can contribute to regional stability and reduce reliance on external powers.
Concerns linger regarding a potential resurgence of IS following the instability in Syria under the new leadership of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Following an agreement in 2022 to conclude the U.S.-led coalition’s military presence in Iraq by September 2025, Iraqi leaders expressed confidence that IS was contained. Yet, the ongoing turmoil in Syria has led some to reevaluate that optimism.
The successful operation resulting in the elimination of IS leader Abu Khadija marks a significant victory against terrorism in Iraq. Collaboration between Iraq and Syria is vital in addressing the persistent threat of IS. Despite historical tensions, both nations aim to enhance their partnership for regional stability, as they confront the challenges posed by the evolving security landscape post-Assad’s fall.
Original Source: apnews.com
