A senior Islamic State leader, Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufay’i, was killed in a joint Iraqi-U.S. airstrike. This operation occurred amid the group’s resurgence in Syria, which has resulted in increased attacks. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani deemed al-Rufay’i one of the world’s most dangerous terrorists, as confirmed by U.S. military officials.

The killing of a senior Islamic State leader, identified as Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufay’i or Abu Khadija, occurred during a joint operation conducted by Iraqi and U.S. forces. The airstrike, which took place on Friday, targeted the leader believed to oversee operations in both Iraq and Syria. This action was prompted by the resurgence of the Islamic State, which has increased its attacks since losing territorial control nearly six years ago.

Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed the operation, labeling al-Rufay’i as “one of the most dangerous terrorists in the world.” U.S. military officials, wishing to remain anonymous, acknowledged the operation’s successful execution, revealing that special operations forces from both nations were involved in gathering evidence at the strike site in Anbar Province, Iraq. This development highlights the continuing collaborative efforts to mitigate the threat posed by the Islamic State amid its reconstitution in Syria.

In conclusion, the coordinated strike against Islamic State leader Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufay’i signifies a notable achievement in the ongoing efforts of Iraqi and U.S. forces to counter terrorism. This operation emphasizes the escalating threat posed by the Islamic State, which has notably intensified its activities in recent years. Continued collaboration between the two nations remains essential in addressing this challenge effectively.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com