Iraqi Prime Minister Confirms Death of IS Leader in Joint Operation

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced the killing of Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, IS’s deputy caliph, during a U.S.-backed operation in Anbar, Iraq. This event coincided with the visit of Syria’s Foreign Minister, as both nations pledged to collaborate against IS terrorism, amidst concerns of an IS resurgence following Assad’s fall.

On March 14, 2025, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced the assassination of Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, also known as “Abu Khadija,” during a joint operation involving the Iraqi national intelligence service and U.S.-led coalition forces in Anbar province, Iraq. Al-Rifai was described as the “deputy caliph” of the Islamic State and one of the most significant terrorists operating in Iraq and worldwide.

The operation, which included an airstrike, occurred the previous night, and leads were confirmed by security officials who chose to remain anonymous. Prime Minister al-Sudani praised this achievement, stating that “the Iraqis continue their impressive victories over the forces of darkness and terrorism.”

This announcement coincided with the first visit from Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaybani to Iraq, where both nations pledged to enhance collaboration in combating IS. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein highlighted the mutual challenges posed by IS terrorism and discussed the newly established operations room consisting of Syria, Iraq, Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon to address these threats.

The relationship between Iraq and Syria remains complex due to historical ties and modern political dynamics. Notably, there have been shifts in power, especially after the fall of former Syrian President Bashar Assad, which contributed to anxieties regarding a potential resurgence of IS. Despite this, both governments aim to strengthen their partnership to promote regional stability by reducing reliance on external influences.

The U.S. and Iraq had initially agreed to conclude the American-led coalition’s military mission in Iraq by September 2025, with many Iraqi leaders expressing confidence in controlling the IS threat. However, the changes in leadership in Syria are causing some Iraqi officials to reconsider their position on the continued threat posed by IS cells in the region.

The killing of Abu Khadija marks a significant victory in the ongoing fight against the Islamic State by Iraqi forces backed by the U.S. coalition. This development underscores the urgency for cooperation between Iraq and Syria as they address mutual threats posed by IS. Strengthening their partnership is essential for regional stability, especially in light of the evolving political landscape in Syria.

Original Source: apnews.com