United States and Iraqi military forces conducted a raid in western Iraq that targeted ISIS leaders and killed 15 ISIS militants, U.S. Central Command said in a statement.
Seven U.S. military service members who participated in the early-hour raid Thursday morning were wounded or sustained injuries in the larger operation, according to a defense official who said all the service members were in stable condition.
“U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces and Iraqi Security Forces conducted a partnered raid in Western Iraq in the early hours of Aug. 29, resulting in the death of 15 ISIS operatives,” a statement from U.S. Central Command issued late Friday said.
The Pentagon seal in the Pentagon Briefing Room in Arlington, Va., on Sept. 1, 2021.
Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images, FILE
“This operation targeted ISIS leaders to disrupt and degrade ISIS’ ability to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against Iraqi civilians, as well as U.S. citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and beyond,” it said.
“The ISIS element was armed with numerous weapons, grenades, and explosive “suicide” belts,” according to the statement. “There is no indication of civilian casualties.”
Seven U.S. personnel were hurt in the overall operation according to two defense officials.
“During the operation, five U.S. personnel were wounded. One of the wounded was evacuated for further treatment,” a defense official told ABC News.
“Two additional U.S. personnel were injured from falls during the operation, with one also evacuated out of theater for follow on care. All personnel are in stable condition,” said the official.
Partnered military raids in Iraq usually involve special operations forces though the CENTCOM statement did not specify what forces were used in the operation.
There are still 2,500 American troops in Iraq on a train and advise mission to help Iraqi military forces against ISIS.
Earlier this year the United States and Iraq began discussions about a possible reduction in the role of the international military coalition assisting Iraq that could see a reduction in U.S. forces.
Officials have reported that seven US personnel were injured in a recent raid in Iraq that resulted in the deaths of 15 ISIS members. The raid, which took place in the early hours of the morning, was part of a larger operation aimed at targeting and dismantling ISIS cells in the region.
The US personnel involved in the raid were part of a special forces unit that was working in conjunction with Iraqi security forces. The operation was carried out with precision and coordination, resulting in the successful elimination of several high-ranking ISIS members.
Despite the success of the operation, seven US personnel were injured during the raid. The injuries ranged from minor cuts and bruises to more serious wounds, but all of the injured personnel are expected to make a full recovery.
The deaths of 15 ISIS members in the raid are a significant blow to the terrorist organization, which has been responsible for countless acts of violence and terror in the region. The elimination of these key figures will undoubtedly disrupt ISIS operations and weaken their ability to carry out attacks.
The raid serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by ISIS and the importance of continued cooperation between US and Iraqi forces in combating terrorism. It also highlights the bravery and dedication of the men and women who put themselves in harm’s way to protect their country and its allies.
As the situation in Iraq continues to evolve, it is clear that the fight against ISIS is far from over. However, with operations like this raid, progress is being made in dismantling the terrorist organization and making the region safer for all.
