Last month, Iraqi forces and American troops collaborated on an operation in Iraq’s western Anbar province, resulting in the death of a senior commander with the Islamic State group, wanted by the United States, along with other prominent militants. Among those killed were a notorious ISIS commander, an ISIS deputy commander in Iraq, and two other ISIS leaders responsible for operations in Iraq. The mission also led to the confiscation of weapons and explosive materials.
While the Islamic State group was defeated in Iraq in 2017 and lost its last stronghold in eastern Syria in 2019, sleeper cells continue to carry out attacks in the region. Recently, U.S. Central Command forces eliminated an ISIS attack cell member in eastern Syria. The U.S. is in talks to transition its military presence in Iraq, with approximately 2,500 troops still stationed there, contingent on the security situation and capabilities of the Iraqi armed forces.
This successful joint operation showcases ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and ensure regional security against extremist threats.