U.S. Central Command Confirms Killing of Two ISIS Militants in Iraq
By Kardo Roj
BAGHDAD, Iraq (North Press) – The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Wednesday that two Islamic State (ISIS) militants were killed in an airstrike in Iraq’s Kirkuk province. The operation, carried out by Iraqi forces with U.S. support, aimed to disrupt ISIS activities in the region.
According to a statement released by CENTCOM, the strike took place on February 10 and was part of ongoing counterterrorism operations to weaken ISIS’s operational capabilities.
Precision Strike on ISIS Targets
The statement detailed that Iraqi forces, backed by U.S. intelligence and airpower, conducted “precise airstrikes” near Kirkuk. The attack resulted in the death of two ISIS operatives and the destruction of explosive devices and weapon components found at the site.
“During the initial clearance operation following the strike, Iraqi forces discovered the remains of the ISIS militants, an explosive belt, and several weapon-making materials, which were subsequently destroyed,” CENTCOM confirmed.
The U.S. military emphasized that this operation was part of a broader effort to dismantle ISIS’s ability to launch attacks and maintain a presence in Iraq.
ISIS Remains a Threat
Despite significant territorial losses, ISIS continues to operate in parts of Iraq and Syria, using remote hideouts to coordinate attacks. The group has been responsible for a series of recent ambushes and bombings targeting security forces and civilians.
U.S. and coalition forces have repeatedly stressed that ISIS remains a threat to regional and global security. The recent Kirkuk operation underscores Washington’s ongoing commitment to assisting Iraqi forces in eliminating the group’s remnants.
“ISIS continues to pose a threat beyond Iraq and Syria, and we remain committed, alongside our partners, to pursuing its fighters and leaders,” the statement added.
Cooperation Between the U.S. and Iraq
The successful operation highlights the continued collaboration between U.S. and Iraqi security forces in countering extremist threats. Over the past year, Iraq has increased its reliance on airstrikes and intelligence-sharing with the U.S. to target ISIS hideouts in remote areas.
As counterterrorism operations continue, both Iraqi and U.S. officials have reiterated their commitment to preventing the resurgence of ISIS and ensuring long-term stability in the region.