Iraq’s Prime Minister announced the death of senior Islamic State leader Abu Khadija, marking a significant blow against terrorism. The US-led coalition supported Iraqi forces in this operation. Despite prior decline, Islamic State appears to be increasingly active, with a noted rise in attacks in 2024.
Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced on Friday the death of Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufay’i, also known as Abu Khadija, a senior leader of the Islamic State. The Prime Minister characterized al-Rufay’i as “one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world.” His demise resulted from operations conducted by Iraqi security forces, aided by the US-led coalition against Islamic State.
The Islamic State had previously exerted stringent Islamist control over millions within Syria and Iraq, and it is believed to be attempting a resurgence in various regions, including the Middle East, the West, and Asia. After the death of former leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who proclaimed a caliphate in 2014, the group has faced significant setbacks.
US Central Command reported last July that Islamic State has been making efforts to regain strength after several years of diminished capabilities. This assertion follows the group’s claims of launching 153 attacks across Iraq and Syria in the first half of 2024, indicating a trend that could lead to an increase in violence, potentially doubling their attack rate from the previous year.
The recent announcement of the killing of a top Islamic State leader underscores ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in Iraq and Syria. Despite setbacks, the group remains a threat, as evidenced by their attempts to regain operational strength and increase attacks. The collaboration between Iraqi forces and the US-led coalition highlights the continued commitment to maintaining regional stability against such extremist groups.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
