Senior Al-Qaeda-Linked Terrorist Leader in Syria Eliminated by US Strike
A U.S. drone strike has eliminated a senior figure affiliated with al-Qaeda in Syria, responsible for terrorist operations.
The target of the strike was Abu-‘Abd al-Rahman al-Makki, a prominent member of the group’s Shura Council who oversaw terrorist activities in Syria, as stated in the announcement.
Hurras al-Din, aligned with al-Qaeda and based in Syria, shares the same goal of targeting American and Western interests, according to CENTCOM.
This operation underscores the continuous commitment of the U.S. to eliminate threats posed by terrorist organizations in the Middle East, especially those related to al-Qaeda.
In a statement, Commander Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla affirmed, “CENTCOM remains steadfast in the everlasting defeat of terrorists within the CENTCOM area who pose a threat to the United States, its allies, partners, and regional stability.”
Recent military operations by U.S. forces against Iranian-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have also been carried out. CENTCOM forces destroyed several Houthi-controlled missile systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) on Aug. 22 and 23, which posed a direct threat to U.S. and coalition forces, as well as commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea.
These actions demonstrate the increased state of alert in the region, especially given the concerns over potential Iranian attacks.
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated, “We have to be prepared for what could be a significant set of attacks, which is why, again, we have increased our force posture and capabilities in the region, even in just the last few days.”
The additional deployment of U.S. military assets aims to deter aggression and enhance defense capabilities for Israel amid escalating tensions in the region. The likelihood of a broader conflict has risen following the targeted killings of high-profile figures in the Iran-backed Lebanese Hezbollah and Palestinian Hamas terrorist groups, raising concerns of a potential broader confrontation involving Iran.
Austin emphasized that the United States is closely monitoring attack planning by Iran and its allied groups, ensuring that U.S. forces are well-positioned to defend Israel and protect American personnel and facilities across the region.