In a significant joint operation on Friday, U.S. and Iraqi forces conducted a raid in Iraq’s western Anbar Desert, targeting suspected Islamic State (ISIS) militants. The mission resulted in the deaths of at least 15 militants and left seven U.S. troops injured, according to U.S. and Iraqi officials.
The U.S. military’s Central Command stated that the raid aimed to disrupt and degrade ISIS leadership, preventing the group from planning and executing attacks on Iraqi civilians, U.S. citizens, and allies in the region. The militants were reportedly armed with numerous weapons, grenades, and explosive suicide belts during the confrontation.
Iraqi military officials confirmed that airstrikes preceded the ground operation, which was intended to eliminate key ISIS leaders and destroy their logistical support. Important documents, identification papers, and communication devices were also seized during the raid.
While the U.S. has continued to support operations against ISIS in the region, the casualties from this raid were notably higher than in previous operations. A U.S. defense official, speaking anonymously, revealed that five American troops were wounded in combat, while two others sustained injuries from falls during the mission. One of the injured soldiers was evacuated from the region for further medical treatment, but all are reported to be in stable condition.
The raid highlights the ongoing threat posed by ISIS, despite the group’s loss of territory in Iraq and Syria. U.S. forces remain actively engaged in counterterrorism operations, even as Iraq debates the future of American military presence within its borders. There are currently about 2,500 U.S. troops stationed in Iraq.
The operation also comes amid heightened tensions in the region, particularly as Iranian-backed militias in Iraq have increasingly targeted U.S. forces following the recent Israel-Hamas conflict. These developments add complexity to the ongoing discussions between Iraq and the U.S. regarding the potential drawdown of U.S. forces in the country.
The raid was not initially publicized by Iraqi officials, reflecting the sensitive nature of U.S. involvement as Iraq seeks to balance its relationships with both the U.S. and neighboring Iran.
