The United States military, in a coordinated effort with Iraqi forces, has successfully eliminated 15 ISIS operatives in a joint operation in western Iraq. The operation, which took place on Friday, was announced by US Central Command (CENTCOM), highlighting the ongoing efforts to target and dismantle ISIS networks in the region.
According to CENTCOM, the 15 ISIS operatives were “armed with numerous weapons, grenades, and explosive ‘suicide’ belts.” The operation, which involved direct engagement with the operatives, faced no civilian casualties, a key factor underscored by CENTCOM in their statement.
“This operation targeted ISIS leaders to disrupt and degrade ISIS’ ability to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against Iraqi civilians, as well as U.S. citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and beyond,” the statement emphasized. The US military sees these targeted strikes as vital to weakening ISIS’ capacity to launch attacks, not just within Iraq but across the wider region.
Further Exploitation of Targeted Locations
Iraqi security forces are now exploiting the intelligence and assets seized from the raid sites, according to CENTCOM. ISIS continues to pose a serious threat in the region, despite the group losing significant territory and influence in recent years. CENTCOM reiterated that it will continue to work alongside Iraqi and coalition partners to “aggressively pursue ISIS operatives,” underscoring the persistent danger that the group presents to both regional stability and global security.
Operation Inherent Resolve and U.S. Troops in Iraq
The joint operation is part of ongoing efforts under Operation Inherent Resolve, the US-led campaign to defeat ISIS, which has been ongoing since 2014. However, in December 2021, the US officially ended its combat role in Iraq and transitioned to an “advise and assist” mission, where approximately 2,500 US troops remain deployed to support Iraqi forces.
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Despite discussions around winding down the mission, recent developments have delayed any formal announcement of an end date for Operation Inherent Resolve. The operation remains critical to maintaining pressure on ISIS cells, which have continued low-level insurgent activities across Iraq and Syria.
Regional Tensions and US Military Presence
The operation comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East. The region has been on edge due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and concerns of potential Iranian retaliation following the assassination of a Hamas political leader in Tehran in July. Iran has accused Israel of carrying out the assassination, although Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement.
In response to the growing tensions, the US Department of Defense has bolstered its military presence in the Middle East. In early September, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered the deployment of a carrier strike group and additional warships to the region, while also accelerating the arrival of a guided-missile submarine. These movements aim to protect US interests and prepare for any potential escalation of hostilities, particularly between Iran and Israel.
Conclusion
The recent joint operation by US and Iraqi forces demonstrates the continued commitment to degrading ISIS’ operational capabilities in Iraq. The US military’s efforts, in partnership with Iraqi forces, remain a key component of regional stability as the fight against extremist groups like ISIS persists. However, broader regional tensions and the future of the US military’s role in Iraq continue to pose complex challenges.
