U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has conducted a series of significant operations in both Yemen and Iraq, targeting Iran-backed Houthi forces and ISIS operatives, respectively.
On Saturday March 15th, CENTCOM initiated precision strikes against Houthi targets across Yemen. The operations aimed to defend American interests, deter hostile actions, and restore freedom of navigation in the region, which has been disrupted by Houthi attacks on commercial and military vessels.
Simultaneously, CENTCOM commended Iraqi Intelligence and Security Forces for their successful operation leading to the capture and arrest of Umm Hussein, a Chechen ISIS terrorist and the wife of Abu Khadija, a high-ranking ISIS leader killed in a U.S. airstrike on March 13th. Two additional ISIS terrorists were also captured during the operation.
READ: US Airstrike Eliminates Al-Qaeda Leader In Syria: CENTCOM
Umm Hussein was an active member of ISIS, and her capture represents a significant blow to the terrorist organization. This operation demonstrates Iraq’s commitment to dismantling ISIS networks and ensuring regional security. CENTCOM, along with its partners and allies, remains dedicated to eliminating ISIS and preventing its resurgence.
The operation against Abu Khadija, whose real name was Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, occurred on March 13th in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was the Global ISIS #2 leader, Chief of Global Operations, and the Delegated Committee Emir, effectively holding a top leadership position within the organization.
Abu Khadija was responsible for ISIS’s global operations, logistics, planning, and a substantial portion of its financial operations. After the airstrike, CENTCOM and Iraqi forces confirmed his death, along with another ISIS operative, at the strike site. Both were wearing unexploded suicide vests and carrying multiple weapons. Abu Khadija’s identity was confirmed through a DNA match from a previous raid.
“Abu Khadijah was one of the most important ISIS members in the entire global ISIS organization. We will continue to kill terrorists and dismantle their organizations that threaten our homeland and U.S., allied and partner personnel in the region and beyond,” said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander, U.S. Central Command.
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