Iraqi Security Forces capture three ISIS operatives in Anbar, uncover ammunition cache
The Iraqi Security Media Cell (ISMC) reported the successful arrest of three ISIS terrorists in Anbar governorate, western Iraq. Acting on precise intelligence, counter-terrorism forces conducted operations resulting in the apprehension of the suspects and the discovery of a significant ammunition stockpile.
The ISMC statement highlighted the continued efforts to combat terrorism, emphasizing a recent strike by Air Force fighter jets on an ISIS hideout in the mountainous terrain of Tuz Khurmatu, Salah Al-Din governorate. This follows the Iraqi Directorate of General Military Intelligence’s announcement in late November, detailing successful operations against ISIS members across various Iraqi governorates.
Earlier in mid-November, the Iraqi Air Force targeted and destroyed an ISIS hideout in Salah Al-Din governorate, resulting in the elimination of two terrorists. Despite these victories, a UN report from August revealed that ISIS maintains a membership of 5,000 to 7,000 individuals in its former strongholds spanning Syria and Iraq.
The report, submitted to the UN Security Council, underlined the dynamic nature of the situation. Despite substantial losses in ISIS leadership and diminished activities in Syria and Iraq, the risk of the group’s resurgence persists.
The report specified that, as of the first half of 2023, the threat level from ISIS remains notably high in conflict zones while registering as low in non-conflict areas.
