US and Iraqi forces have killed ISIS’s deputy caliph, Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, in a precision airstrike in Al Anbar province. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat terrorism despite ISIS’s global influence. Concerns persist over potential ISIS expansion amid regional instability following the Syrian regime’s collapse.
US forces, in collaboration with Iraqi intelligence and security teams, successfully eliminated a top Islamic State leader during an airstrike in western Iraq. Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, known as ‘Abu Khadijah,’ was referred to as the “deputy caliph” of ISIS and labeled one of the most dangerous terrorists by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani.
President Donald Trump confirmed the operation on social media, asserting, “The fugitive leader of ISIS in Iraq was killed… His miserable life was terminated, along with another member of ISIS.” The precision strike occurred on Thursday in Al Anbar province, where both Abu Khadijah and another operative were found dead, both reportedly wearing un-exploded suicide vests and armed.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) identified Abu Khadijah through DNA collected during a prior raid. His key responsibilities included overseeing operations and logistics for ISIS globally and managing significant financial resources for the group. Al-Sudani publicly recognized Iraq’s persistent victories against terrorism.
Historically, prior to a US-led coalition’s intervention, ISIS had controlled substantial territories in Syria and northern Iraq. Although it currently operates as a more decentralized entity, it remains active and poses threats globally, conducting significant attacks like the deadly Moscow mall bombing in March 2024 that resulted in numerous casualties.
There is growing concern among US officials regarding potential ISIS expansion amid instability in Syria following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. During this critical time, al-Sudani announced the ISIS operatives’ deaths, coinciding with a visit from Syria’s top diplomat, signifying a commitment between Iraq and Syria to counter terrorism and enhance regional security.
The joint operation by US and Iraqi forces marking the death of Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai underscores a significant step in countering ISIS leadership. While the group has diminished in territorial control, it continues to inspire violence globally. The partnership between the US and Iraq, along with renewed cooperation with Syria, represents a concerted effort to curb ISIS’s resurgence and enhance regional stability.
Original Source: www.crossroadstoday.com
