A senior Islamic State (IS) leader, Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifa (Abu Khadija), has been eliminated in a joint operation by Iraqi intelligence forces and the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq's western Al Anbar province.

Al-Rifa, who led IS's senior decision-making body and managed global financial networks, was killed alongside another IS operative. Both were found wearing suicide vests and carrying multiple weapons. His identity was confirmed through DNA analysis using samples from a previous raid.

Key Operation Details:

• Location: Al Anbar province, Iraq
• Conducted by: Iraqi intelligence and U.S.-led coalition
• Confirmation: DNA analysis
• Additional casualty: One other IS operative
• Evidence recovered: Suicide vests and weapons

CENTCOM Commander General Michael Erik Kurilla confirmed Abu Khadija was among the most significant IS leaders globally. The operation represents a major blow to IS's operational and financial networks, though experts warn the group remains active through sleeper cells.

While Iraq declared IS defeated in December 2017, militants continue launching attacks on Iraqi forces. Both U.S. and Iraqi governments have pledged continued counterterrorism efforts, emphasizing the need for vigilance and cooperation to prevent IS from regaining strength.

Current Status:

• IS maintains active sleeper cells
• Continued attacks on Iraqi forces
• Coalition forces maintain counterterrorism operations
• Enhanced intelligence sharing between allies
• Ongoing monitoring of remaining IS networks

The successful operation demonstrates effective international cooperation in counterterrorism efforts, though officials stress the fight against IS remnants continues.

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