Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced the killing of ISIS leader Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai during an operation with U.S.-led coalition forces. This development coincided with the first visit of Syria’s Foreign Minister, highlighting a collaborative effort to combat IS threats. Regional security dynamics are shifting as both nations prioritize cooperation amidst fears of ISIS resurgence.
On March 14, 2025, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced that the head of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria has been killed during a joint operation by the Iraqi national intelligence service and U.S.-led coalition forces. The slain individual, Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, known as “Abu Khadija,” was described as a leading terrorist figure within the organization. The operation reportedly involved an airstrike in Anbar province, with confirmation of al-Rifai’s death occurring the following day.
This announcement coincided with the inaugural visit of Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaybani to Iraq. During a press conference, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein emphasized the collaborative effort between Iraq and Syria to combat the threats posed by ISIS. He mentioned discussions on the security movements of ISIS, particularly along the Syrian-Iraqi border, highlighting shared challenges faced by both nations.
Further cooperation was noted between Syria, Iraq, Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon in addressing the IS threat, with an operational command established for collaborative actions. Although historical ties between Iraq and Syria have been challenged following the fall of former Syrian President Bashar Assad, both nations aim to strengthen their partnership to enhance regional stability and reduce reliance on foreign powers.
Concerns have arisen regarding the potential resurgence of ISIS following changes in Syria, particularly under the new leadership of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which is actively pursuing IS cells. An agreement made in the previous year stipulated the cessation of the coalition’s military mission in Iraq by September 2025, a decision that Iraqi officials now appear to be reassessing amidst changing security dynamics.
The recent killing of the Islamic State leader signals a decisive action by Iraqi forces, backed by international collaboration. The ongoing discussions between Iraq and Syria reflect a commitment to combating terrorism and enhancing security in the region. However, the potential resurgence of IS raises critical questions about future stability and the effectiveness of the current security arrangements following recent political changes in Syria.
Original Source: apnews.com
