The head of ISIS in Iraq, Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, also known as “Abu Khadija,” was killed in a joint operation involving Iraq’s national intelligence service and U.S.-led coalition forces. The operation, which took place in the western Iraqi province of Anbar, was confirmed on Friday.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani hailed the operation as a significant victory in the ongoing fight against terrorism, stating that the Iraqi forces have been “impressive” in their efforts against ISIS. Al-Rifai, who was a senior leader within the terror group, was described as one of the most dangerous terrorists globally.
U.S. President Donald Trump praised the successful mission on his Truth Social platform, calling it a result of “relentless” efforts by American forces working with Iraqi and Kurdish forces. “PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH!” Trump added.
The announcement of al-Rifai’s death came the same day Syria’s top diplomat visited Iraq, where both nations pledged to cooperate in combating ISIS. The two countries also discussed joint efforts to address ISIS activities along their shared border.
While Iraq has largely declared victory over ISIS, the presence of residual terrorist cells continues to pose a security challenge in the region.
