Syria's ISIS chief Abu Khadija, world's most dangerous terrorist, eliminated in airstrike; Trump confirms killing
PTC Web Desk: In a major counter-terrorism operation, US forces, in coordination with Iraqi and Kurdish security units, have eliminated Abdullah Maki Musleh al-Rifai, also known as Abu Khadija, a high-ranking leader of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Iraq. Another unidentified member of the terror group was also killed during the strike.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed the operation and lauded the efforts of the Iraqi security forces and their coalition partners. He described Abu Khadija as "one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world," emphasising that his elimination marks a significant step in Iraq’s ongoing battle against extremist groups.
US President Donald Trump also took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to announce the success of the mission. "Today, the fugitive leader of ISIS in Iraq was killed. He was relentlessly hunted down by our intrepid warfighters," Trump stated.
A security official revealed that the operation was executed through an airstrike in Iraq's western Anbar province. The strike reportedly took place on Thursday evening, and the official announcement came a day later. Shortly after Trump’s statement, the White House released visuals of the targeted airstrike that eliminated Abu Khadija.
Trump further detailed the collaborative effort behind the mission, saying, "His miserable life was terminated, along with another member of ISIS, in coordination with the Iraqi Government and the Kurdish Regional Government. PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH!"
Abu Khadija was a key figure in ISIS and was considered a potential contender for the position of the group’s global leader or "caliph." His influence within the organisation made him a prime target for counter-terrorism forces.
The announcement of Abu Khadija’s death coincided with the visit of Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani to Iraq, where discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in combating ISIS remnants.
- With inputs from agencies
