United States and Iraqi military forces conducted a raid in western Iraq that targeted ISIS leaders and killed 15 ISIS militants, U.S. Central Command said in a statement.
Seven U.S. military service members who participated in the early-hour raid Thursday morning were wounded or sustained injuries in the larger operation, according to a defense official who said all the service members were in stable condition.
“U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces and Iraqi Security Forces conducted a partnered raid in Western Iraq in the early hours of Aug. 29, resulting in the death of 15 ISIS operatives,” a statement from U.S. Central Command issued late Friday said.
The Pentagon seal in the Pentagon Briefing Room in Arlington, Va., on Sept. 1, 2021.
Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images, FILE
“This operation targeted ISIS leaders to disrupt and degrade ISIS’ ability to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against Iraqi civilians, as well as U.S. citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and beyond,” it said.
“The ISIS element was armed with numerous weapons, grenades, and explosive “suicide” belts,” according to the statement. “There is no indication of civilian casualties.”
Seven U.S. personnel were hurt in the overall operation according to two defense officials.
“During the operation, five U.S. personnel were wounded. One of the wounded was evacuated for further treatment,” a defense official told ABC News.
“Two additional U.S. personnel were injured from falls during the operation, with one also evacuated out of theater for follow on care. All personnel are in stable condition,” said the official.
Partnered military raids in Iraq usually involve special operations forces though the CENTCOM statement did not specify what forces were used in the operation.
There are still 2,500 American troops in Iraq on a train and advise mission to help Iraqi military forces against ISIS.
Earlier this year the United States and Iraq began discussions about a possible reduction in the role of the international military coalition assisting Iraq that could see a reduction in U.S. forces.