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U.S. Strikes ISIS Leader in Major Counterterrorism Win

3/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In a decisive blow against ISIS, U.S. Central Command and Iraqi forces eliminated senior leader Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, also known as Abu Khadijah, in a precision airstrike on March 13, 2025, in Al Anbar Province. His role in orchestrating operations was significant, and DNA analysis confirmed his identity. President Trump hailed the operation as a testament to relentless counterterrorism efforts.

History

Historical Context

On March 13, 2025, U.S. forces targeted and killed ISIS leader Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai in Al Anbar Province. This follows a long history of U.S. counterterrorism efforts against ISIS, which gained prominence after the 2014 capture of Mosul. The group's leadership has faced significant losses, echoing past U.S. operations against al-Qaeda in Iraq, particularly following the deaths of key figures like Abu Musab al-Zarqawi in 2006.

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Story summary

In a decisive blow against ISIS, U.S. Central Command and Iraqi forces eliminated senior leader Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, also known as Abu Khadijah, in a precision airstrike on March 13, 2025, in Al Anbar Province. His role in orchestrating operations was significant, and DNA analysis confirmed his identity. President Trump hailed the operation as a testament to relentless counterterrorism efforts.

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