US and Iraqi Forces Conduct Airstrike in Al Anbar, Eliminates multiple ISIS Operatives, Including Senior Leader
The Iraqi government further identified him as “Deputy Caliph,” Governor of Iraq and Syria, head of the authorized committee, and head of foreign operations offices.
IRAQ - On March 13, 2025, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces, in coordination with Iraqi Intelligence and Security Forces, conducted a targeted airstrike in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
The operation resulted in the deaths of two individuals identified as members of the Islamic State (ISIS), including Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, also known as “Abu Khadijah,” and another ISIS operative.
According to CENTCOM, Abu Khadijah held senior positions within ISIS, including Chief of Global Operations, a member of the Delegated Committee Emir, and a role in the group’s highest decision-making body, with responsibilities covering global operations, logistics, planning, and a significant portion of the organization’s financial management.
The Iraqi government further identified him as “Deputy Caliph,” Governor of Iraq and Syria, head of the authorized committee, and head of foreign operations offices, indicating his prominence within the organization.
Following the airstrike, CENTCOM and Iraqi forces assessed the site, confirming the deaths of both individuals, who were found wearing unexploded suicide vests and carrying multiple weapons.
Identification of Abu Khadijah was established through DNA analysis, using samples collected from a previous operation in which he had evaded capture.
The Iraqi Prime Minister issued a statement confirming the operation, attributing the outcome to the National Intelligence Service, in coordination with the Joint Operations Command and International Coalition Forces.
The statement noted Abu Khadijah’s status as a significant figure in ISIS and described the operation as part of ongoing efforts to address security threats in Iraq.
General Michael Erik Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command, stated that Abu Khadijah was a key member of ISIS’s global network and emphasized CENTCOM’s intent to continue targeting terrorist organizations threatening the United States, its allies, and regional partners.
The Iraqi government similarly highlighted Abu Khadijah’s role as a notable terrorist figure in Iraq and internationally, situating the operation within broader security efforts.
This operation took place alongside other CENTCOM activities in the region. On the same date, U.S. Army personnel from the 2nd Squadron, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Task Force Reaper, participated in Jade Cobra VI, a bilateral exercise in Jordan involving M1A2 Abrams tanks and M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicles, aimed at enhancing military cooperation.
CENTCOM also reported operations involving Carrier Air Wing 1 with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group and U.S. Air Force F-16 aircraft in Exercise Blue Sands, focused on regional air and missile defense integration, reflecting ongoing military engagements in the Middle East.