Senior ISIS Leader Abu Khadija Eliminated in US-Iraqi Joint Operation, DNA Tests Confirm
A senior Islamic State (IS) leader, Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifa (Abu Khadija), has been killed in a joint operation by Iraqi intelligence forces and the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq's western Al Anbar province.
Operation scene showing aftermath of strike
Al-Rifa, who led IS's senior decision-making body and managed global financial networks, was eliminated alongside another IS operative. Both were found wearing suicide vests and carrying multiple weapons. DNA analysis confirmed his identity using samples from a previous raid where he had escaped.
U.S. CENTCOM released footage of the strike, with General Michael Erik Kurilla declaring Abu Khadija as "one of the most important IS members in the entire global organization."
Key points about the operation:
- Location: Al Anbar province, Iraq
- Joint effort: Iraqi intelligence and U.S.-led coalition
- Confirmation: DNA analysis verified identity
- Additional outcome: Second IS operative eliminated
- Strategic impact: Disruption of IS leadership and financial networks
While Iraq declared IS defeated in December 2017, sleeper cells remain active, conducting sporadic attacks on Iraqi security forces. This operation represents a significant blow to IS leadership, though experts warn the group maintains operational capacity across Iraq, Syria, and other regions.
Both U.S. and Iraqi authorities have pledged continued counterterrorism efforts, emphasizing the importance of sustained intelligence-sharing and military cooperation to prevent IS resurgence. While this strike marks a crucial victory, officials stress that ongoing vigilance remains essential to counter persistent terrorist threats.
