The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Friday (August 30th) that American forces, in cooperation with Iraqi security forces, conducted a raid in western Iraq on the early morning of August 29th, resulting in the elimination of 15 ISIS militants. Pentagon officials disclosed to American media that seven US military personnel were injured during the operation.
CENTCOM issued a statement on social media platform X, declaring the joint raid operation. According to CENTCOM, “ISIS militants were carrying a large number of weapons, grenades, and suicide explosive belts. There is no evidence of civilian casualties.”
“The operation targeted ISIS leaders and aimed to disrupt and weaken ISIS’s planning, organizing, and execution of attacks against Iraqi civilians as well as American citizens, allies, and partners in and out of the region,” the statement said.
“ISIS still poses a threat to the region, our allies, and our country. The US Central Command will continue actively pursuing these terrorists alongside our coalition forces and Iraqi partners,” CENTCOM stated.
The Iraqi military released a statement indicating that the raid targeted hideouts, followed by airborne operations. The Iraqi military also stated, “Among the deceased were key ISIS leaders,” without specifying their identities.
“All hideouts, weapons, and logistical support were destroyed, explosive belts were safely detonated, and important documents, identification papers, and communication equipment were confiscated,” the Iraqi military reported.
According to a US Department of Defense official, a total of seven US military personnel were injured in this joint operation, with five sustaining injuries during the assault and two others injured from falls.
“All injured personnel are in stable condition,” the official added.
CNN obtained information from three defense officials confirming the seven US military personnel were injured.
On August 5th, a military base housing US troops in Iraq was attacked, resulting in at least five American personnel being injured. Subsequently, the Iraqi Foreign Ministry announced a delay in declaring the end date of the US-led coalition mission due to “the latest developments”.
There are currently 2,500 US troops stationed in Iraq. A report by Reuters in March stated that negotiations between the US and Iraq on ending the US-led mission in Iraq might not conclude until after the US presidential election in November.