CENTCOM-backed airstrike kills 5 ISIS terrorists in Iraq

By Merve Berker

On Jan. 31, Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), supported by US Central Command (CENTCOM), conducted precision airstrikes near Kirkuk, killing five Daesh/ISIS terrorists, CENTCOM reported Tuesday.

The airstrikes were part of CENTCOM's ongoing Defeat-ISIS campaign to dismantle the group's attack networks and prevent its resurgence, the CENTCOM said on X.

The operation was backed by Coalition Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve (CTF-OIR), which provided intelligence and technical support.

“An initial post-strike clearance found multiple explosive suicide belts and other materials,” CENTCOM confirmed, underscoring the strike’s role in weakening the terror group’s operational capabilities.

CENTCOM reiterated that Daesh continues to pose a threat to the region and beyond.

“ISIS remains a threat to the region and beyond, and CENTCOM, along with partners and allies, will continue to aggressively pursue these terrorists to protect the homeland,” the statement read.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to working with regional allies to ensure Daesh’s lasting defeat and bolster security and stability.

The operation near Kirkuk is one of several coordinated efforts to degrade the group's ability to launch attacks.