In a significant development, the US military forces, in collaboration with the Iraqi Security Forces, conducted a joint operation in western Iraq early Thursday, resulting in the elimination of 15 Islamic State (IS) “operatives.” The operation specifically targeted the leadership of the militant group.
US Central Command (Centcom) reported that during the operation, American and Iraqi troops encountered IS members equipped with an array of weapons, grenades, and explosive suicide belts. Despite the intense confrontation, Centcom confirmed that there were no civilian casualties in the operation.
The Iraqi military released an earlier statement, detailing that the operation began with air strikes targeting IS hideouts, followed by an airborne assault in the desert and caves of western Iraq. The strikes effectively destroyed all IS hideouts, weapons, and logistical support. Additionally, the forces safely detonated explosive belts and seized critical documents, identification papers, and communication devices.
While the operation was hailed as a success, US media sources cited defense officials indicating that seven American troops were injured. However, Centcom has yet to comment on these reports.
The operation aligns with Centcom’s ongoing efforts to “disrupt and degrade” IS’s capabilities to plan and execute attacks against American, Iraqi, and allied forces within and beyond the region. Currently, approximately 2,500 US troops remain in Iraq in an advisory and assistance capacity following the conclusion of US combat efforts in December 2021.
The operation also comes in the wake of recent IS-related incidents in Europe, including a disrupted plot in Austria targeting a Taylor Swift concert and a deadly attack in Solingen, Germany. These events underscore the persistent threat posed by IS, despite the group’s significant territorial losses in Iraq and Syria in recent years.
Intelligence provided by the CIA to Austrian authorities played a crucial role in preventing the concert attack, potentially saving hundreds of lives, according to CIA Deputy Director David Cohen. Meanwhile, the Solingen attack, which left three dead and eight injured, has sparked outrage in Germany ahead of upcoming state elections, with the suspect’s links to IS under investigation.
Though the physical caliphate established by IS has been largely dismantled by a US-led coalition, the group’s online propaganda continues to inspire and radicalize individuals globally. A senior Whitehall official in London described the group’s current status as “down but not out,” reflecting the ongoing vigilance required to counter the IS threat.
