Additional Coverage:
- 7 US troops hurt in raid with Iraqi forces targeting Islamic State group militants that killed 15 (newsbreak.com)
In a recent military operation, U.S. forces, in collaboration with Iraq, targeted ISIS militants in Iraq’s western desert, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 individuals. The operation, taking place in the Anbar Desert, also resulted in injuries to seven U.S. soldiers, according to statements made on Saturday.
Despite having previously dismantled ISIS’s territorial claims in Iraq and Syria, U.S. military efforts continue to combat remnants of the group, with this raid suffering higher casualties than usual. The operation, which occurred on Thursday, was aimed at ISIS leaders to impede the group’s ability to conduct regional and international attacks. According to Central Command, no civilian casualties were reported, and the Iraqi Security Forces are currently examining the raided sites.
Central Command detailed that the militants were equipped with multiple weapons, grenades, and explosive ‘suicide’ belts. A consecutive Iraqi military statement informed that airstrikes initially targeted militant hideouts, following which ground forces conducted an airborne assault, killing several ISIS commanders and neutralizing their logistical bases.
Further details shared anonymously by a U.S. defense official with the Associated Press noted that five U.S. troops were wounded during the operation, with two others suffering injuries due to falling. Immediate medical evacuation was arranged for those critically injured. They confirmed that all injured personnel are stable now.
This operation follows ongoing debates within Iraq on the presence of American troops, estimated at about 2,500 in the country. The political scenario in Iraq remains tense as it continues to navigate its relationship with both the United States and Iran, especially following recent escalations since the Israel-Hamas war.
At its height, ISIS controlled a territory about half the size of the United Kingdom, enforcing a strict regime based on its extremist interpretation of Islam. Despite losing control over its lands by 2019, thanks to a global coalition spearheaded by the U.S., ISIS continues to manifest a threat through smaller cells operational in areas like the Anbar Desert and through affiliations that inspire global attacks. The militants’ influence was highlighted in the recent prevention of an attack planned against music artist Taylor Swift in Vienna, inspired by the group’s ideology.