In a decisive joint operation, the Iraqi Joint Operations Command and the Counter Terrorism Service successfully eliminated seven ISIS militants in Saladin's Tuz Khurmatu district, according to an announcement from the Iraqi Security Media Cell on Saturday.

The operation, which involved a precision strike by an F-16 aircraft, is part of an ongoing effort by Iraqi security forces to target and dismantle ISIS hideouts. Detailed intelligence reports guided the strike, resulting in the death of a significant ISIS leader among the seven casualties, marking a significant blow to the militant group's operations in the region.

The Iraqi Security Media Cell emphasized the importance of continued coordination between various security agencies to eradicate remaining ISIS strongholds and enhance regional stability. "The operation underscores our commitment to neutralizing threats and securing our nation," the statement read.

ISIS has been exploiting security gaps along the border of the Kurdistan region of Iraq, particularly between Iraqi armed forces and Kurdish Peshmerga forces, to carry out attacks and resupply its militants. These gaps emerged following the 2017 Kurdistan Region independence referendum, after which Iraqi forces and Iranian-backed Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) expelled the Peshmerga from the disputed territories. Since then, ISIS has taken advantage of the resultant security vacuum to maintain its presence in the desert and mountainous areas.

The ongoing joint efforts by Iraqi security forces aim to address these vulnerabilities and prevent ISIS from regaining a foothold in the region. As operations continue, the collaboration between Iraqi armed forces and other security entities remains crucial in the fight against ISIS and in ensuring long-term stability and safety for the people of Iraq.