The head of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, was killed in an operation by Iraqi forces, supported by the U.S.-led coalition. Concurrently, Iraqi and Syrian officials met to discuss joint efforts against IS and to enhance military collaboration amid concerns about a resurgence of terrorism following the regime change in Syria.
On Friday, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced the death of the Islamic State’s leader in Iraq and Syria, Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, also known as “Abu Khadija.” This operation was executed by the Iraqi national intelligence service with support from U.S.-led coalition forces, marking a significant victory against terrorism in the region.
The successful airstrike occurred in Anbar province, with the confirmation of al-Rifai’s death reported on Friday. He was described as a deputy caliph and one of the most dangerous terrorists globally. Reports indicate that the operation took place on Thursday night, revealing detailed coordination and intelligence involvement.
Simultaneously, the announcement coincided with the first visit of Syria’s top diplomat to Iraq, where officials pledged joint efforts to combat IS. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein highlighted the shared challenges between Syria and Iraq and discussed the terror group’s movements across borders.
Hussein mentioned a recently established operations room involving Syria, Iraq, Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon slated to enhance collaboration against IS. The geopolitical relationship between Iraq and Syria has shown strains after the fall of President Bashar Assad, exacerbated by differing influences and affiliations.
While Iraqi officials grow anxious over a potential IS resurgence, the newly established Syrian regime has been pursuing IS cells. The U.S.-Iraq agreement last year to reduce military presence by September 2025 has prompted reassessment among Iraqi leaders concerning security threats amidst changing dynamics in the region.
The recent killing of Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai by Iraqi forces, assisted by U.S. coalition forces, signals a critical achievement in combating terrorism, particularly the Islamic State. This event, coupled with diplomatic efforts between Iraq and Syria to confront shared threats, emphasizes the necessity for ongoing collaboration in an evolving geopolitical landscape to ensure regional stability.
Original Source: www.military.com
