Special operators killed an Islamic State senior leader during a raid in Syria on Friday night, the Pentagon announced.
Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said the raid in al-Amir in eastern Syria killed Abu Sayyaf, an Islamic State leader who “helped direct the the terrorist organization’s illicit oil, gas and financial operations.”
U.S. special operators also captured his wife, Umm Sayyaf, who is believed to be a member of the Islamic State and may have been complicit in the enslavement of a young Yezidi girl who was rescued in last night’s raid, the statement said.
“The operation represents another significant blow to ISIL and it is a reminder that the United State will never waver in denying safe haven to terrorists who threaten our citizens and those of our friends and allies,” Mr. Carter said.
No U.S. troops were injured or killed in the operation, he said.
• Jacqueline Klimas can be reached at jklimas@washingtontimes.com.
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