The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) forces have successfully conducted a raid in al Bab, Aleppo Governorate, Syria, resulting in the death of senior ISIS leader Dhiya’ Zawba Muslih al-Hardani and his two adult sons, Abdallah Dhiya al-Hardani and Abd al-Rahman Dhiya Zawba al-Hardani. According to the US military, these individuals posed a significant threat to US and Coalition Forces, as well as the new Syrian Government.
General Michael Erik Kurilla, US CENTCOM commander, emphasized the ongoing commitment to defeating ISIS terrorists, stating, “We will continue to relentlessly pursue ISIS terrorists wherever they are. ISIS terrorists are not safe where they sleep, where they operate, and where they hide.” He further underscored the collaboration with partners and allies to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS threats to the region, allies, and homeland.
This military operation highlights the persistent threat posed by ISIS in the Middle East and beyond. Recently, in late May, ISIS claimed responsibility for an attack on the Syrian army, marking the group’s first strike at government forces since the fall of Bashar al-Assad. According to analysts, ISIS views the new government in Damascus, led by President Ahemd al-Sharaa, as illegitimate and has primarily concentrated its activities against Kurdish forces in the north.
The Syrian government faces multiple challenges, including Israeli bombardment and incursions into its territory since al-Assad’s overthrow, alongside sustained sectarian violence in the southern city of Suwayda. The complex security landscape underscores the need for continued international cooperation to address these threats.
The US Central Command forces conducted a precision strike in Syria’s Aleppo region, resulting in the death of senior ISIS leader Dhiya’ Zawba Muslih al-Hardani and his two adult sons. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts of the US military to disrupt and degrade ISIS’s capabilities in the region. General Michael Erik Kurilla, US CENTCOM commander, emphasized the commitment to relentlessly pursuing ISIS terrorists wherever they are, ensuring they pose no threat to US forces, allies, or regional stability.
In a separate instance in December 2024, US CENTCOM forces carried out another precision airstrike in Syria’s Dayr az Zawr Province, killing ISIS leader Abu Yusif, also known as Mahmud, and another ISIS operative. This strike highlights the persistent threat posed by ISIS and the importance of continued military action to prevent the group’s resurgence. The US military remains vigilant in targeting ISIS leaders and operatives, working alongside regional partners to maintain security and stability.