Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has confirmed that security forces successfully targeted and killed a senior Islamic State (ISIS) leader known for directing “foreign operations.”
In a statement posted online on Friday, al-Sudani announced that Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufayi, also known as “Abu Khadija,” was eliminated. Al-Rufayi had been regarded as one of the most dangerous terrorists both in Iraq and globally. The Iraqi Prime Minister praised the achievement, calling it another victory in the nation’s ongoing fight against terrorism.
Al-Rufayi was identified as ISIS’s so-called “deputy caliph” and held a key leadership position within the militant organization. According to the Iraqi premier, he was also responsible for managing ISIS’s “foreign operations offices.”
While the exact timing of the operation was not disclosed, al-Sudani credited Iraqi intelligence forces for successfully executing the mission with assistance from the US-led coalition.
On the same day, US President Donald Trump acknowledged the successful targeting of al-Rufayi, commending American troops for their persistence in tracking the militant leader. An Iraqi security official confirmed that the strike took place in Anbar province, western Iraq. A second source stated that the mission occurred on Thursday night, with al-Rufayi’s death confirmed the following day.
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) described al-Rufayi as ISIS’s second-in-command, highlighting his role in managing global operations, logistics, and finances. CENTCOM added that following the strike, security forces discovered two deceased ISIS members at the site. Both were reportedly wearing unexploded suicide vests and carrying multiple weapons. Identification of al-Rufayi was confirmed via DNA collected from a previous raid where he had previously evaded capture.
The news of al-Rufayi’s death coincided with a visit by Syria’s Foreign Minister to Iraq, where officials from both nations pledged to strengthen cooperation against ISIS. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein emphasized the shared challenges Iraq and Syria face regarding ISIS activities along their border and inside both countries.
During this visit, officials discussed the formation of a joint operations room involving Iraq, Syria, Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon, intended to enhance coordination in confronting ISIS. This initiative is expected to commence soon.
Despite Iraq’s declaration of victory over ISIS in 2017, remnants of the group continue to conduct sporadic attacks, particularly in rural regions. The recent operation underscores Iraq’s ongoing efforts to prevent a resurgence of ISIS influence in the region.
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