A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II operated within the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility as part of ongoing missions.
CENTCOM forces successfully conducted a precision airstrike in Syria’s Dayr az Zawr Province, targeting and eliminating ISIS leader Abu Yusif, also known as Mahmud, along with another ISIS operative.
The operation, executed on Thursday, was part of CENTCOM’s broader efforts to dismantle terrorist networks. It specifically targeted ISIS activities aimed at organizing and executing attacks against civilians, U.S. military personnel, and allied forces both in the region and globally.
“This airstrike underscores our commitment to preventing ISIS from regaining strength and conducting external operations,” stated Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander. “We will aggressively target these leaders and operatives, including those plotting attacks outside Syria.”
The strike occurred in a region previously controlled by Syrian and Russian forces, reflecting the ongoing instability of the area.
ISIS has persistently attempted to rebuild its operational strength, including efforts to liberate over 8,000 detained operatives from Syrian facilities. U.S. forces, in coordination with regional allies, continue to disrupt these plans and apply consistent pressure on ISIS leadership.
The elimination of Abu Yusif marks a significant setback for ISIS, impacting both its leadership structure and operational capabilities. CENTCOM reaffirmed its commitment to working with partners to promote regional stability and counter the enduring threat posed by ISIS.
