The head of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, was killed in an operation by Iraqi intelligence and coalition forces. His death was announced by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. Meanwhile, Iraq and Syria aim to reinforce their partnership to combat common threats from IS amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.
The head of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria has been killed during an operation conducted by the Iraqi national intelligence service in conjunction with U.S.-led coalition forces, as confirmed by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. He stated that this achievement exemplifies Iraq’s ongoing victories against terrorism. The individual killed was Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, known as “Abu Khadija,” who was identified as a significant threat in Iraq and globally.
The operation that resulted in al-Rifai’s death was executed through an airstrike in Anbar province, with confirmation of his demise following the operation. The announcement coincided with a diplomatic visit from Syria’s Foreign Minister, during which both nations discussed collaborative efforts to combat the Islamic State. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein emphasized the shared challenges faced by both countries regarding IS and detailed discussions concerning ISIS activities along their mutual borders.
Hussein also referenced a recent initiative in Amman, where a coalition including Syria, Iraq, Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon established an operational unit to combat IS comprehensively. Historical tensions exist between Iraq and Syria, particularly due to past allegiances; however, both foreign ministers expressed a desire to strengthen ties, emphasizing their countries’ shared cultural and economic heritage.
In light of a potentially resurgent IS following recent political shifts in Syria, Iraqi officials have expressed heightened concern. Although the U.S. and Iraq had previously agreed to gradually conclude the military coalition’s mission by September 2025, the current climate suggests a reassessment of this agreement may be necessary. Political changes in Syria could impact regional security and the control of IS cells, prompting Iraqi leaders to reconsider their strategic positions against the group.
In summary, the killing of a key Islamic State leader represents a substantial counter-terrorism success for Iraq and the U.S. coalition. However, the evolving geopolitical situation, particularly in Syria, brings renewed concerns regarding the resurgence of IS. Collaborative efforts between Iraq and Syria to address the shared threat of terrorism, along with the historical ties between the nations, may prove crucial in maintaining regional stability.
Original Source: www.military.com
