American operation targets IS leaders in Iraq, 15 killed

American armed forces, supported by Iraqi commandos, conducted an operation against the Islamic State (IS) group in Iraq. This action resulted in the deaths of 15 people identified as IS fighters and leaders and injured 7 American soldiers, according to United States Central Command (CENTCOM).

The operation was carried out early in the morning on August 29 in the Anbar desert in western Iraq. According to CENTCOM sources, the attackers were armed with "numerous weapons, grenades, and explosive 'suicide' belts." Among those neutralized were also key leaders of the IS group, with no civilian casualties reported.

Meanwhile, Iraqi authorities provided information about the attack but omitted the involvement of American forces. According to CENTCOM, the goal of the attack "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."

The Associated Press reminds us that after reclaiming territories controlled by IS in Iraq and Syria, American forces continue their efforts against the remnants of the group in the Middle East. Notably, the number of casualties in this recent attack was exceptionally high. Questions arise as to why the Americans admitted to participating in the operation only after several days.

The so-called Islamic State, at its peak, controlled an area in Iraq and Syria equal to half the territory of the United Kingdom, using an extreme interpretation of Islam and draconian punishments for "infidels" as well as some Muslims considered apostates. A coalition of over 80 countries led by the USA led to the defeat of the extremists, who still operate in smaller groups in the region.