“Relentlessly Hunted Down”: Trump Announces Death of ‘Fugitive’ ISIS Leader in Iraq
"U.S. Airstrike Kills High-Ranking ISIS Leader Abu Khadijah in Iraq, Major Blow to Terror Network"
Washington, March 15 – In a significant counterterrorism operation, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed killing high-ranking ISIS leader Abu Khadijah and another unidentified operator in a precision airstrike in Iraq‘s Anbar province. The strike, carried out in conjunction with Iraqi Intelligence and Security Forces, was a big blow to the international terror network.
Who Was Abu Khadijah?
As reported by CENTCOM, Abu Khadijah was the Emir of ISIS‘ highest decision-making entity and held an important role in the global operations, logistics, and finances of the group. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani referred to him as the “deputy caliph” of ISIS and “one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world.”
The Operation
The precision-guided airstrike occurred last night in Anbar province, which is an ISIS hotbed. After the attack, American and Iraqi forces closed in to verify the kills. Abu Khadijah and the second militant were discovered both wearing unexploded suicide belts and armed with multiple firearms.
DNA Confirmation
CENTCOM disclosed that Abu Khadijah was discovered through DNA taken from a prior raid, in which he escaped capture by mere inches. The operation was one of the continued efforts to dismantle ISIS leadership and thwart future attacks.
U.S. Vows Continued Action
U.S. Central Command Commander General Michael Erik Kurilla said, “We will continue to kill terrorists and disrupt their organizations that target our homeland and U.S., allied, and partner personnel in the region and beyond.”
The U.S. and Iraqi forces are on high alert as they watch out for possible retaliation from the militant group. Further information on the operation is to be released in the coming days.
Trump’s Statement
Speaking about the operation, Trump said, “Today the fugitive leader of ISIS in Iraq was killed, This ISIS leader was a ruthless terrorist, responsible for horrific acts. He was relentlessly pursued and finally taken out. The world is a safer place today.”
While the details of the mission remain classified, sources indicate that the raid was conducted with precision, ensuring no civilian casualties.
