• Iraqi PM confirms the death of ISIS leader Abu Khadija, a major figure in the organization.
• The operation involved both Iraqi forces and the US-led coalition, culminating in an airstrike.
• His death is seen as a significant setback for ISIS operations in Iraq and Syria.
• The announcement coincided with discussions between Iraqi and Syrian officials on combating ISIS.
• Concerns remain about the potential resurgence of ISIS, particularly following the political instability in Syria.

The leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, known as Abu Khadija, has been killed during a military operation conducted by Iraqi security forces in coordination with the US-led coalition, as announced by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. This operation, confirmed through a precision airstrike in western Iraq’s Al Anbar Province, targeted one of the most dangerous terrorists in the region, previously identified as a potential contender for the role of ISIS's global leader, or "caliph" Reuters.

Sudani hailed this development as a major victory against what he described as the “forces of darkness and terrorism,” emphasizing that the battle against ISIS has not yet been won despite significant progress since Iraq declared victory over the group in 2017 South China Morning Post. The operation reflected continued threats posed by ISIS, with reports indicating that the group has been attempting to regain control and reconstitute its operations, particularly in Syria New York Times.

A US Central Command (CENTCOM) official also confirmed the successful airstrike, where Abu Khadija was found wearing an unexploded suicide vest. His identification was aided by DNA collected in a prior raid Newsweek.

The timing of the announcement was significant as it coincided with a visit by Syria's interim Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shibani, to Iraq. The two countries discussed strategies to combat ISIS effectively, highlighting the need for cooperation between Iraq and Syria in addressing common security challenges. This meeting aimed to strengthen their historical ties in the face of a potential resurgence of ISIS following the recent political changes and instability in Syria CBS News.

Despite these operations, concerns linger regarding ISIS's ability to launch attacks in both Iraq and Syria, with previous military successes raising questions about the group's future capabilities. Leaders from both countries have indicated plans to establish operations centers to enhance joint efforts against terrorism Al Jazeera.