Senior Islamic State Leader Killed in Joint Operation by Iraq and U.S.

A joint Iraqi-U.S. operation led to the death of senior Islamic State leader Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufay’i, also known as Abu Khadija. The operation highlights the group’s resurgence in Syria. U.S. and Iraqi forces participated in the strike, which was confirmed by a senior military official.

On Friday, a senior leader of the Islamic State, identified as Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufay’i, also referred to as Abu Khadija, was killed during a joint operation by Iraqi and U.S. forces. This operation, based on coordinated intelligence from both nations, took place in Anbar Province, Iraq. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani stated that Al-Rufay’i was among the world’s most dangerous terrorists.
The killing of Al-Rufay’i occurs amidst the Islamic State’s resurgence in Syria, where the group has intensified its attack frequency following its territorial losses nearly six years prior. A senior U.S. military official, who chose to remain anonymous, confirmed the operation and noted that both nations’ special operations forces were on-site collecting data from the airstrike’s impact.
Al-Rufay’i’s elimination is a significant development in the fight against the Islamic State, particularly as it seems the group is attempting to re-establish itself in the region.

The joint operation resulting in the death of Islamic State leader Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufay’i marks a critical achievement for Iraqi and U.S. forces. This operation underscores the ongoing threat posed by the Islamic State, particularly in light of its recent surge of activity in Syria. The continued collaboration between Iraq and the United States remains essential in combating the resurgence of terrorism in the region.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com