US Forces Kill Senior ISIS Leaders in Syria Raid

U.S. Special Forces conducted a pre-dawn raid in Idlib province, northwestern Syria, targeting senior Islamic State (ISIS) members, including a key candidate to become the group's next leader in Syria. The operation, coordinated with local Syrian forces and reportedly with Turkish cooperation, resulted in the death of at least one high-value ISIS commander of Iraqi nationality and the killing of two senior ISIS leaders, including Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, a potential future caliph. The raid also led to the capture of five individuals, with no U.S. or partner casualties reported. Helicopters and drones provided air support, and the operation was described by U.S. officials as successful in preventing a future ISIS threat to U.S., Coalition forces, and the new Syrian government. This marks the second joint operation between the U.S.-led Coalition and the Syrian government in northern Syria since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad, reflecting ongoing efforts to suppress ISIS resurgence in the region. U.S. Central Command emphasized its commitment to pursuing ISIS operatives wherever they are found.