In a recent statement, the US military announced the successful raid in western Iraq that resulted in the death of four ISIS leaders. The leaders were identified as Ahmad Hamid Husayn Abd-al-Jalil al-Ithawi, Abu Hammam, Abu-‘Ali al-Tunisi, and Shakir Abud Ahmad al-Issawi, each responsible for various aspects of ISIS operations in Iraq.
General Michael Erik Kurilla, commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), emphasized the commitment to the ongoing defeat of ISIS, highlighting the group's threat to the United States, allies, partners, and regional stability.
The raid, conducted in partnership with Iraqi security forces on August 29, resulted in the elimination of more than a dozen armed ISIS operatives. Despite seven US troops sustaining injuries during the operation, there were no reported civilian casualties.
Amidst the current tensions in the Middle East, Iraq has decided to postpone setting an end-date for the US-led military coalition's presence in the country. The US currently maintains approximately 2,500 troops in Iraq, operating in an advisory capacity since the cessation of combat operations in December 2021.
Furthermore, the region is facing additional challenges, including the Israel-Hamas conflict and the recent killing of a Hamas political leader in Tehran, raising concerns about potential retaliatory actions from Iran. In response, the US Department of Defense has deployed a carrier strike group, a fighter squadron, and additional warships to the Middle East, with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordering the acceleration of military assets to the region.
