Iraqi airstrikes destroy ISIS hideout in Zarka

SALAH AL-DIN — Iraqi F-16 fighter jets have destroyed an Islamic State hideout in the Zarka area of Salah al-Din Governorate, killing all occupants, according to the Joint Operations Command.

In a statement, the Command detailed that, acting on precise intelligence and directives from Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, the Military Intelligence Directorate identified the location of the terrorist hideout in Hawi Al-Labwah within the Zarka region.

“Based on this accurate information, F-16 aircraft executed an airstrike targeting this hideout, resulting in its complete destruction and the elimination of the ISIS elements inside,” the statement read.

The command emphasized the ongoing commitment to eradicating terrorism from Iraq, stating, “Our heroic security forces continue to exact just retribution on the terrorist groups that are breathing their last breaths. Anyone who contemplates harming this nation will face inevitable regret and certain death.”

The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of Iraq’s resilience: “Iraq will remain a fortified stronghold and a safe haven, protected by its loyal men.”.

On Nov. 30, 2024, Iraqi security forces discovered the bodies of five militants killed in a precision airstrike conducted by Iraqi F-16 fighter jets in the Hamrin mountain range within Kirkuk province.

Despite declaring military victory over the Islamic State in December 2017, Iraq continues to confront the persistent threat posed by remnants of the group. Although significantly weakened, ISIS has maintained a clandestine insurgency, executing sporadic attacks and sustaining sleeper cells across various regions.

In response, Iraqi security forces, often collaborating with international partners, have intensified operations to dismantle these residual elements. Notably, in October 2024, a joint operation between U. S. and Iraqi forces resulted in the death of Jassim al-Mazroui Abu Abdul Qader, the ISIS leader in Iraq, along with eight senior leaders in the Hamrin Mountains.

Despite these successes, ISIS continues to exploit security gaps, particularly in areas with limited security presence. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has asserted that ISIS remnants no longer pose a significant threat to the Iraqi state, describing them as “isolated groups hiding in remote areas to avoid capture.”