U.S. military operations against ISIS intensify, with 95 strategic raids conducted in just 60 days, dealing a significant blow to the terrorist organization.
Yes, we’re still fighting ISIS.
At a Glance
- U.S. Central Command conducted 95 operations against ISIS in Iraq and Syria since August 29
- 163 ISIS terrorists killed, 33 captured, including over 30 senior and mid-level leaders
- Operations included unilateral strikes in Syria and joint U.S.-Iraqi missions
- Approximately 900 U.S. forces in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq for counter-ISIS missions
Intensified Campaign Against ISIS
The U.S. military has launched a vigorous offensive against ISIS, conducting 95 operations in Iraq and Syria over the past 60 days. The operations, which began on August 29, have dealt a significant blow to ISIS’s operational capabilities and leadership structure.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that these precision-targeted raids have resulted in the elimination of 163 ISIS terrorists and the capture of 33 others. Among those neutralized or apprehended were over 30 senior and mid-level ISIS leaders, severely disrupting the group’s command and control structure. The operations have also yielded substantial enemy materiel, which will aid in future efforts to dismantle the terrorist network.
US military carried out 95 counter-ISIS operations in last 60 days https://t.co/2YrDKlHVxM
— The Hill (@thehill) November 4, 2024
Strategic Impact and Ongoing Efforts
The sustained pressure from these operations has significantly constrained ISIS leaders’ ability to operate and plan attacks. General Michael Erik Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command, emphasized the importance of maintaining this momentum in the fight against terrorism.
“Alongside our coalition and Iraqi partners, we will continue to aggressively pursue these terrorists and disrupt their capability to conduct operations against U.S. interests, as well as those of our allies and partners,” Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla said.
The campaign includes a mix of unilateral strikes in Syria and joint operations with Iraqi forces. A notable attack in late October targeted Syrian desert camps, resulting in the elimination of up to 35 militants. Additionally, a joint U.S.-Iraqi operation in central Iraq on October 22 led to the neutralization of at least seven ISIS operatives.
Currently, approximately 900 U.S. forces are stationed in Syria, with an additional 2,500 in Iraq, all dedicated to counter-ISIS missions. These troops play a crucial role in preventing an ISIS resurgence following the group’s territorial defeat in 2019. However, the ongoing operations are not without risk to American personnel.
“U.S. forces in the Middle East have killed 163 Islamic State group militants and captured another 33 in dozens of operations in Iraq and Syria since late August, U.S. Central Command said in a Monday statement,” U.S. Central Command reported.
During the October 22 operation in Iraq, two U.S. service members sustained injuries, with one being evaluated for traumatic brain injury. This incident underscores the dangerous nature of these missions and the sacrifices made by American troops in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
