In a coordinated operation conducted early Thursday morning, U.S. and Iraqi forces killed at least 15 operatives of the Islamic State group in Anbar Province, Iraq. The raid, which involved extensive airstrikes and an airborne assault, was part of a broader strategy to disrupt and degrade the capabilities of ISIS.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that the operation targeted high-value ISIS leaders who were equipped with an array of weapons, including grenades and explosive suicide belts. The raid, executed in collaboration with Iraq's security forces, aimed to mitigate the threat posed by these militants to Iraqi civilians and U.S. personnel in the region. "This operation targeted ISIS leaders to disrupt and degrade ISIS' ability to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against Iraqi civilians, as well as U.S. citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and beyond," CENTCOM stated.
The early morning assault involved precision airstrikes on ISIS hideouts in the desert, followed by a direct airborne operation. Iraq's military confirmed that key leaders within the militant group were neutralized, although specific identities were not disclosed. The raid comes amidst ongoing concerns over ISIS's ability to regroup and launch attacks.
In a related incident, the raid follows recent security developments in Europe. In Germany, a Syrian refugee linked to ISIS was arrested after a stabbing spree that resulted in three deaths and eight injuries. Additionally, Austrian authorities thwarted a planned attack on a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna, allegedly orchestrated by an ISIS sympathizer. These incidents underscore the persistent threat posed by ISIS and its affiliates.
The operation in Iraq saw injuries among the U.S. forces involved. A defense official reported that five soldiers were injured during the raid, with two additional injuries resulting from falls. While the injuries were not life-threatening, one soldier was evacuated for further treatment. CENTCOM confirmed that there were no civilian casualties linked to the raid.
The U.S. and Iraqi forces involved in the operation are part of an ongoing effort to prevent the resurgence of ISIS in the region. About 2,500 U.S. troops are stationed in Iraq, with an additional 900 in Syria, primarily in an advisory and support role. Their mission includes ensuring that ISIS does not reconstitute itself and countering the influence of Iran-backed militias.
The raid is a continuation of U.S. efforts to dismantle terrorist networks in the Middle East. Earlier this month, a similar operation targeted Abu Abdul Makki, a senior leader of the Al-Qaeda-affiliated group Horas al-Din in Syria. "CENTCOM remains committed to the enduring defeat of terrorists who threaten the United States, its allies and partners, and regional stability," said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander.
