In a significant development in the fight against terrorism, U.S. military forces, in collaboration with Iraqi intelligence and security services, successfully eliminated a high-profile leader of the Islamic State (ISIS) during an airstrike in western Iraq. The operation specifically targeted Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, known by his alias ‘Abu Khadijah.’ Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani characterized him as the “deputy caliph” of ISIS, labeling him “one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world.”


In a statement released on social media, former U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the operation, noting, “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!”


U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that the strike took place on Thursday in Iraq’s Al Anbar province. Abu Khadijah, described as the “Global ISIS #2 leader, Chief of Global Operations, and Delegated Committee Emir,” was killed alongside another ISIS operative. Upon investigation of the site, U.S. and Iraqi troops discovered both individuals deceased, wearing unexploded suicide vests and armed with multiple weapons.



The identification of Abu Khadijah was made possible through a DNA match from evidence collected during a previous raid in which he managed to narrowly escape. As a key figure within ISIS in both Iraq and Syria, he was responsible for orchestrating operations, managing logistics, and planning terrorist activities on a global scale. Moreover, he played a pivotal role in overseeing the financial operations that supported the organization’s worldwide network.


Prime Minister al-Sudani celebrated this victory, stating, “The Iraqis continue their impressive victories over the forces of darkness and terrorism.” 


It is important to note that before a series of military defeats by a U.S.-led coalition nearly six years ago, ISIS, often referred to as the “caliphate,” commanded significant territory across Syria and northern Iraq while establishing affiliates throughout Africa and Asia. Despite its territorial losses, ISIS remains a potent threat, having organized deadly attacks in European cities and continuing to inspire and support extremist activities across more than a dozen countries, including Europe and Russia.


This recent airstrike underscores the ongoing commitment of U.S. and Iraqi forces to combat terrorism and restore peace in the region.