In a significant counter-terrorism operation, the Iraqi Security Media Cell announced the killing of seven terrorists, including a senior leader, in the Eastern Salah al-Din region.
According to a statement reported by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), the Iraqi National Intelligence Service, in coordination with the Counter-Terrorism Service, executed a strategic operation in the Balkana Mountains, located in the Tuz Khurmatu district within the Eastern Salah al-Din operational sector.
The forces surrounded a key terrorist cell, and with the support of airstrikes from F-16 fighter jets, conducted two precision airstrikes.
The operation successfully resulted in the elimination of all members of the targeted terrorist cell, estimated to be seven individuals, including a high-ranking leader, according to initial reports.
Iraqi Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, announced today that the government has allocated 5 trillion dinars (about $3.826 billion) to enhance the military’s capabilities and weaponry.
This budget includes 3 trillion dinars ($2.295 billion) specifically earmarked in this year’s budget to modernize and strengthen the armaments of various branches of the armed forces, according to the German Press Agency.
During the inauguration ceremony of the new Air Defense Command Operations Center, Al-Sudani praised the efforts of the commanders and officers who played a pivotal role in completing and operating the center.
The center was established in collaboration with the French defense equipment company, Thales, as part of Iraq’s strategic plans to upgrade its military arsenal, as stated in a government press release.
Al-Sudani emphasized the aim to safeguard Iraq’s security and sovereignty over its land, air, and waters. This is a central objective within the government’s defense program, especially in the post-international coalition phase.
He also highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to pursue all forms of terrorist threats or breaches, build capabilities for detection and early warning, particularly in low-detection areas, and improve air defense techniques to match advancements in neighboring and regional countries.
