Digital Desk: The head of the Islamic State organization Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi blew himself and his family during a nighttime US operation in northwestern Syria on Thursday, according to the White House.
President Joe Biden termed the death of Islamic State leaders and his family as an “act of desperate cowardice.”
The nocturnal special forces attack in Syria’s northwestern Idlib province delivered the jihadist group its largest setback since Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, Qurashi’s well-known predecessor, was killed in a similar operation in 2019.
In statements from the White House, Biden said, “Last night’s operation took a major terrorist leader off the battlefield.”
“As our troops approached the terrorist, he decided to blow himself up in a final act of desperate cowardice, with no regard for the lives of his own family or those in the building, rather than face justice for the crimes he has perpetrated.” the US president stated.
“Qurashi took several members of his family with him when he detonated the bomb, earlier which was done by his predecessor.” Biden added.
Moreover, warning the terrorist organizations, Biden said, “Syria operation has proved what we can do; we will come after you and find you.”
Biden pledging that the US military will stay vigilant and ready for every situation, said, “I’ve been working to defend the American people from terrorist threats, and I’ll take serious action to safeguard this country.”
“To minimize civilian losses special forces raid was carried out instead of an airstrike.” he added.
“Knowing that this terrorist had chosen to surround himself with families, including children, we decided to conduct a special forces raid at a much greater risk to our own people than an air attack against him (Qurashi).” Biden said.
