CENTCOM's Partnered Raid in Iraq Results in Casualties

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) conducted a partnered raid with Iraqi Security Forces in western Iraq on Aug. 29, resulting in 15 ISIS operatives killed and seven U.S. personnel injured. The operation faced challenges with injuries from falls among U.S. forces and postponed talks on the coalition's end date.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported on Saturday that its forces, in collaboration with the Iraqi Security Forces, conducted a raid in western Iraq in the early hours of August 29. The operation resulted in the deaths of 15 Islamic State (ISIS) operatives and injuries to seven U.S. military personnel.

CENTCOM's Friday statement noted that the ISIS operatives were heavily armed with various weapons, grenades, and explosive "suicide" belts. They also mentioned no civilian casualties from the raid. According to two U.S. officials speaking on the condition of anonymity, five U.S. personnel were injured during the operation, with one evacuated for further treatment. Additionally, two other personnel sustained injuries from falls and required evacuation for further treatment. All personnel involved are now in stable condition.

Earlier this month, an attack on a military base in Iraq resulted in at least five U.S. personnel being injured. Subsequent to this event, Iraq's foreign ministry reported a delay in announcing the end date for the U.S.-led coalition's mission due to unspecified developments. Reuters had reported in March that discussions between the U.S. and Iraq regarding the conclusion of the coalition's mission might extend past the U.S. presidential elections in November. Iraq, a rare ally of both the U.S. and Iran, currently hosts 2,500 U.S. troops alongside Iran-backed militias linked to its security forces.

(With inputs from agencies.)