Erbil, Kurdistan Region - American-backed security forces in Iraq and Syria conducted a series of counterterrorism operations last week that killed two ISIS militants and captured a senior leader, dealing another blow to the extremist group's dwindling capabilities in the region.

The operations, conducted between May 21-27 with U.S. military support, targeted ISIS cells attempting to regroup across northern Iraq and eastern Syria. Pentagon officials confirmed the raids successfully disrupted the terror network's operations and weapons supply lines.

In Syria:

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) conducted a precision raid near Deir ez-Zur on May 21-22, capturing an ISIS operative after receiving intelligence from U.S. Special Operations advisors.

In Iraq:

Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Service units, supported by U.S. surveillance and reconnaissance assets, carried out multiple simultaneous raids across three provinces:

Salah al-Din Province: Forces eliminated two ISIS fighters in a firefight

Kirkuk Province: Security forces uncovered and destroyed a weapons cache containing rifles, explosives and bomb-making materials

Al-Fallujah: Iraqi forces captured a high-value ISIS leader during a nighttime raid
Strategic Impact

The operations come as ISIS attempts to rebuild its networks following the death of its leader last year. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reports these strikes have significantly degraded the group's ability to:

Move fighters and weapons across the region
Organize attacks against civilian populations
Re-establish command structures

"While ISIS no longer controls territory, these operations prove the group remains a persistent threat requiring constant pressure," said CENTCOM spokesperson Lt. Col. Troy Garlock.

The U.S. maintains about 2,500 troops in Iraq and 900 in Syria as part of the ongoing mission to prevent an ISIS resurgence. Military analysts warn the group still commands between 5,000-7,000 fighters across both countries.