Priyanka Tiwari
Share
In a significant counterterrorism success, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), working alongside Iraqi Intelligence and Security Forces, conducted a precision airstrike that eliminated Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, also known as "Abu Khadijah." The strike, carried out on March 13 in Iraq’s Al Anbar Province, removed one of ISIS’s top global leaders, dealing a major blow to the terrorist organization.
Strategic Strike Targets Senior ISIS Operative
CENTCOM confirmed that the airstrike neutralized Abu Khadijah and another ISIS operative. As the second-highest-ranking leader of ISIS and the Emir of the Delegated Committee, Abu Khadijah played a crucial role in planning and coordinating the group's global operations. His removal significantly disrupts ISIS’s leadership hierarchy and operational capabilities.
CENTCOM Forces Kill ISIS Chief of Global Operations Who Also Served as ISIS #2
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 15, 2025
On March 13, U.S. Central Command forces, in cooperation with Iraqi Intelligence and Security Forces, conducted a precision airstrike in Al Anbar Province, Iraq, that killed the Global ISIS #2 leader,… pic.twitter.com/rWeEoUY7Lw
Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, the commander of CENTCOM, reiterated the United States' commitment to counterterrorism efforts:
“Abu Khadijah was one of the most important ISIS members in the entire global organization. We will continue eliminating terrorists and dismantling networks that threaten the U.S., our allies, and partner nations.”
Forensic Confirmation of the Kill
Following the successful airstrike, CENTCOM and Iraqi forces secured the area and used DNA matching to confirm Abu Khadijah’s identity. Reports indicate that both ISIS members killed in the operation were wearing suicide vests and carrying multiple weapons, highlighting their ongoing intent to carry out attacks.
Trump Praises Counterterrorism Operation
Former President Donald Trump acknowledged the significance of the strike, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of U.S., Iraqi, and Kurdish forces.
“Today, the fugitive leader of ISIS in Iraq was killed. He was relentlessly hunted down by our intrepid warfighters. His miserable life was terminated, along with another ISIS member, in coordination with the Iraqi Government and the Kurdish Regional Government. PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH!”
Impact on ISIS Operations
As the Emir of ISIS' Delegated Committee, Abu Khadijah oversaw logistics, financial planning, and the coordination of attacks worldwide. His death is a significant setback for ISIS, further weakening its ability to conduct operations both regionally and globally.
A Key Figure in ISIS Leadership
Abu Khadijah was regarded as one of the most dangerous ISIS leaders operating in Iraq and beyond. His role placed him under speculation as a potential successor to ISIS’s global leader, making his elimination a crucial achievement in ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
The strike underscores the persistent efforts of U.S. and Iraqi forces to dismantle ISIS leadership and prevent future terrorist activities.
Read More: Massive Fire at North Macedonia Nightclub Kills at Least 50 During Concert
