The U.S.-led coalition and Iraqi forces escalated their offensive against ISIS militants over the past week, including a confrontation in an Iraqi cave where several Islamic State fighters were killed, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported on January 6.
The operations were carried out as part of a broader strategy to maintain pressure on ISIS and prevent the group from rebuilding its strength.
F-16 and F-15 fighter jets executed airstrikes against ISIS positions in Iraq’s Hamrin Mountains, with U.S. Air Force A-10 aircraft providing support to ground troops.
The A-10s successfully eliminated militants entrenched in a cave, marking a key success in the ongoing campaign, according to CENTCOM.
The operation, which resulted in one coalition member’s death and two other injuries, also underscored the continuing risks involved in the fight against ISIS.
Although CENTCOM did not disclose the nationality of the casualties, it confirmed that no American personnel were injured.
This latest round of operations highlights the persistent threat posed by ISIS, despite the group’s self-declared caliphate being defeated in 2019.
U.S. and allied forces have remained in Iraq and Syria to thwart any attempts by ISIS to regroup and regain territory.
CENTCOM Commander, Army General Michael Erik Kurilla, emphasized the importance of these partnered operations in the face of a rapidly shifting security landscape.
“The enduring defeat of ISIS is a global effort that relies on our Coalition, allies, and partners,” Kurilla stated, stressing the continued commitment of U.S. forces in the region.
The ongoing Operation Inherent Resolve, which targets ISIS fighters in both Iraq and Syria, is scheduled to conclude in September 2025.
At that point, U.S. and Iraqi officials anticipate shifting to new bilateral security arrangements, though specifics remain undefined.
With approximately 2,500 U.S. troops in Iraq, there are expectations that the number may decrease under the new arrangement, though the details are still unclear.
The political landscape in Iraq is also contributing to the uncertainty. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani faces pressure to reduce the U.S. military presence, yet concerns about ISIS’ potential resurgence remain high.
In Syria, meanwhile, the U.S. has about 2,000 troops working with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-led militia.
This partnership has led to recent operations in eastern Syria, including the capture of an ISIS attack cell leader in Deir Ez Zor.
While the U.S. military maintains that ISIS has retained operational capabilities in both Iraq and Syria, officials continue to monitor the group’s activities.
Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh underscored the mission’s focus on preventing ISIS from returning to its former strength, reiterating the commitment to an “enduring defeat” of the group.
These operations come amid growing concerns that ISIS could exploit instability in the region, particularly in Syria, following the political turmoil caused by the downfall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
However, the coalition remains focused on neutralizing ISIS militants wherever they are found, to prevent further attacks in the Middle East and beyond.
The latest developments also underscore the shifting nature of the global fight against terrorism, as ISIS evolves and adapts, posing new challenges to the international community.
The U.S. and its allies remain resolute in their commitment to dismantling the group and safeguarding the region from its threat.