Iraqi Counterterrorism Chief: Strong Coordination with Kurdistan Region Led to ISIS Leader’s Elimination

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The head of Iraq's Counter-Terrorism Service confirmed ongoing coordination with the Kurdistan Region's security forces, highlighting joint operations that led to the elimination of Abdullah Maki, the ISIS wali (governor) of Iraq and Syria.

On Friday, Karim Aboud al-Tamimi, chief of Iraq’s Counterterrorism Service , told Kurdistan 24 that the capture and killing of Abdullah Maki was the result of close coordination between Iraqi counterterrorism units and Kurdistan Region security forces.

“We have maintained strong cooperation with the Kurdistan Region’s security forces, and this year alone, we have carried out several joint operations,” Tamimi stated.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced Maki’s killing through his official account on social media platform X, describing him as one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world.

“Maki served as the deputy governor of ISIS in Iraq and Syria. He was responsible for the group’s operational command and logistical networks,” Sudani explained.

Kurdistan Region’s Key Role in the Operation

During a press conference, deputy commander of Iraq’s Joint Operations, praised the role of the Kurdistan Region Security Council forces in the mission, stating, “The bravery of Kurdistan’s security personnel was instrumental in eliminating the ISIS leader. Additionally, today, the joint operations command arrested five more terrorists.”

Similarly, Qasim al-Araji, Iraq’s national security advisor, acknowledged the contributions of various security agencies in a post on X.

“Salute to the heroes of Iraq’s intelligence services, the Joint Operations Command, Kurdistan Region Security Council, and the International Coalition forces for their efforts in bringing down the ISIS leader of Iraq and Syria,” he wrote.

Despite its significant involvement in the operation, the Kurdistan Region Security Council (KRSC) was not mentioned in the official statements issued by the federal government. The Council expressed disappointment over this omission, warning that such oversight could strain future security cooperation.

“Unfortunately, the federal Prime Minister’s statement did not recognize the crucial role played by the Kurdistan Region Security Council in this operation. Such oversight could jeopardize future cooperation between regional and federal institutions,” the KRSC said in a statement.

Maki’s Terror Designation by the U.S.

Abdullah Maki Muslih was designated as a terrorist by the U.S. on Jun. 9, 2023. His elimination marks a significant blow to ISIS and underscores the ongoing counterterrorism efforts between Iraq, the Kurdistan Region, and their international allies.