Synopsis:
Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, known as “Abu Khadija,” a high-ranking ISIS leader, has been neutralized in a precision operation by Iraqi intelligence forces, with crucial support from the U.S.-led coalition. The mission coincided with a diplomatic visit from Syria’s foreign minister, underscoring a joint commitment to preventing the resurgence of the terrorist group.
BAGHDAD – In a decisive counterterrorism effort, Iraqi intelligence operatives, in coordination with U.S.-led coalition forces, successfully eliminated a top ISIS leader in Iraq, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed on Friday.
Iraq continues to achieve remarkable victories against the forces of extremism and terror,” al-Sudani declared in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, widely known as “Abu Khadija,” was identified as the “deputy caliph” of ISIS and regarded as one of the most dangerous militant figures operating in Iraq and beyond, the statement noted.
U.S. President Donald Trump also acknowledged the mission on Truth Social, stating, “Today, the fugitive leader of ISIS in Iraq has been taken down. He was relentlessly pursued by our brave forces, working in close coordination with Iraqi and Kurdish authorities.”
Trump ended his statement with his signature phrase: “PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH!”
Details of the Operation
A high-ranking security source revealed that the operation was executed through an airstrike in Anbar province, a region in western Iraq known for previous ISIS activity. Another official, speaking anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the operation, confirmed that the strike occurred Thursday night, with al-Rifai’s death verified the following day.
Strategic Timing Amid Syria-Iraq Diplomatic Engagements
The announcement of Abu Khadija’s demise coincided with the visit of Syria’s top diplomat to Baghdad, emphasizing collaborative efforts between the two nations to dismantle ISIS networks.
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During a press conference, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein highlighted shared security concerns: “Both Syrian and Iraqi societies face common threats, particularly from ISIS remnants. Our discussions focused on the group’s movements along the Syria-Iraq border and within both nations.
Hussein also referenced an anti-ISIS operations room formed through a regional coalition involving Iraq, Syria, Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon, which is expected to begin active coordination soon.
Geopolitical Implications and Future Counterterrorism Measures
The relationship between Iraq and Syria remains complex, particularly following the downfall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. While Iraq’s current administration, backed by Iran-linked factions, has historical ties to Assad’s government, Syria’s interim leadership under Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, presents new dynamics in the region.
Despite past tensions, Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani emphasized historical ties:
“Baghdad and Damascus have long served as pillars of Arab and Islamic civilization, bound together by shared cultural and economic ties. Strengthening our partnership is vital for regional stability, reducing reliance on external powers, and ensuring a self-determined future.
Concerns Over an ISIS Resurgence
The joint operation against Abu Khadija comes at a time when Iraqi officials are increasingly wary of a potential ISIS resurgence, particularly in the wake of Assad’s fall in Syria. While Syria’s new ruling coalition, led by the Islamist faction Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has cracked down on ISIS cells, concerns remain over long-term security stability.
In 2023, the U.S. and Iraq agreed to phase out the American-led coalition’s military operations in Iraq by September 2025, gradually withdrawing troops from strategic bases. At the time, Iraqi leaders expressed confidence that ISIS had been sufficiently contained.
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However, recent regional shifts—including Assad’s removal—have prompted a reassessment of security strategies. Influential Iraqi political figures, particularly within the Iran-aligned Coordination Framework, now argue for continued vigilance against the terrorist group’s potential resurgence.
The elimination of Abu Khadija marks a significant milestone in counterterrorism efforts but also underscores the ongoing challenges facing Iraq and its regional allies in maintaining long-term security and stability.