Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed the death of Abdullah Maki Musleh al-Rifai, a high-ranking ISIS leader considered one of the world’s most dangerous terrorists. His demise, resulting from an operation with U.S. support, reflects ongoing challenges in combating ISIS, which has faced leadership crises since the death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in 2019.
Abdullah Maki Musleh al-Rifai, the leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, has been confirmed deceased by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. Acknowledged as one of the most dangerous terrorists globally, his death was the result of operations by Iraqi security forces in collaboration with a U.S.-led coalition against the militant group, as reported by Reuters.
Prime Minister al-Sudani expressed his congratulations to Iraq and peace-loving people worldwide, emphasizing the significance of this security achievement. He referred to al-Rifai, also known as Abu Khadija, as a major threat within Iraq and internationally.
Abu Khadija, identified as a senior figure within ISIS, held the title of ‘Deputy Caliph’ and was the emir of ISIS’s Iraq division. His birth in 1991 in Balad District, Salah ad Din Province, Iraq, notably marks the emergence of a prominent figure in the organization. In recent years, ISIS has experienced substantial leadership losses, including the death of former leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in 2019.
Despite losing territorial control following al-Baghdadi’s death, the Islamic State has attempted to re-establish itself in various regions, including the Middle East, West, and Asia. Reports indicate that, although diminished, remnants of the group continue to perpetrate attacks.
Al-Baghdadi’s assassination during a U.S. operation in Syria significantly weakened ISIS; however, some networks remain operational, posing ongoing challenges. As highlighted, the group has historically imposed severe Islamist governance over millions in Syria and Iraq, resulting in significant humanitarian and international security implications.
The death of Abdullah Maki Musleh al-Rifai marks a notable development in the ongoing efforts to combat ISIS, characterized by significant leadership destabilization since 2019. As Iraq continues to confront threats from remnants of ISIS amidst their attempts at resurgence, international collaboration remains crucial to maintaining regional security.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
