The head of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Iraq and Syria has been killed in a targeted operation by Iraqi national intelligence forces, in coordination with the US-led coalition.

The announcement, made by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Friday, marks a significant step in ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorist threats in the region. “The Iraqis continue their impressive victories over the forces of darkness and terrorism,” al-Sudani declared in a statement on X.

Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, known as “Abu Khadija,” held the position of deputy caliph within the extremist group and was regarded as “one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world.” His elimination is considered a major blow to the group’s operations.

Security officials confirmed that the operation was executed via an airstrike in Iraq’s western Anbar province. According to sources, the strike took place late Thursday, March 13 but al-Rifai’s death was verified the following day. Due to the sensitive nature of the mission, officials spoke on condition of anonymity.

The timing of the announcement coincided with the visit of Syria’s top diplomat to Iraq. The discussions between Iraqi and Syrian officials underscored the growing urgency to confront ISIS threats along the shared border.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein addressed the matter in a press conference, emphasizing the shared threat posed by ISIS. “There are common challenges facing Syrian and Iraqi society, and especially the terrorists of IS,” he stated. Hussein further elaborated on the importance of cross-border intelligence sharing and military cooperation to prevent the resurgence of ISIS fighters.

Regional Cooperation To Combat ISIS

Iraq and Syria have been increasing their counterterrorism collaboration, a relationship that has gained new urgency following the recent political transition in Syria. During the meeting, officials discussed the role of an operations room formed by Syria, Iraq, Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon in tackling ISIS threats. The unit, established in Amman, is expected to begin coordinated efforts soon.

Despite historical tensions, Syrian interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the two nations.

“Throughout history, Baghdad and Damascus have been the capitals of the Arab and Islamic world, sharing knowledge, culture and economy.”
Asaad Hassan al-Shibani

He further stressed that strengthening bilateral relations would contribute to regional stability, reducing reliance on external powers.

The airstrike and the high-level diplomatic visit come amid growing concerns about an ISIS resurgence following the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

President Bashar al Assad — President Bashar al-Assad

The new leadership in Syria, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham — formerly an insurgent group — has been actively targeting ISIS cells, but concerns remain about a potential security vacuum that could allow the terrorist group to regain strength.

The latest development also comes at a crucial time as Iraq prepares for the gradual withdrawal of US-led coalition forces. In an agreement reached last year, Iraq and the United States decided to wind down the coalition’s mission by September 2025. As part of this transition, US forces have already begun leaving certain bases where they have been stationed for nearly two decades.

Iraqi political leaders had previously stated that ISIS posed a diminishing threat and that external military assistance was no longer necessary. However, the fall of Assad in December has led to a reassessment of this position.

Some factions, particularly the Iran-backed Coordination Framework coalition, which played a key role in bringing al-Sudani to power, are now reconsidering their stance on security cooperation with external forces.

As Iraq navigates this critical period, officials stress the need for continued vigilance. The killing of al-Rifai is a major success, but security experts warn that ISIS remains an adaptable and persistent threat. Moving forward, Iraq’s strategy will require sustained counterterrorism efforts, regional collaboration, and political stability to ensure that the remnants of ISIS do not regroup.