The strikes, which destroyed a vehicle convoy of 10 armed trucks, targeted a gathering of ISIL leaders near Mosul, US Central Command announced, however the Pentagon could not confirm whether al-Baghdadi was part of the escort. Until Baghdadi’s whereabouts are confirmed, nothing can be certain of his fate. Back in September, reports of his death in a US strike circulated. Al-Baghdadi has long been wanted by the US.

On 4th October 2011, Washington listed al-Baghdadi as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist and placed a US$10 million bounty on his head. The latest strikes on ISIS positions come after President Barack Obama announced his plans to send an additional 1,500 troops to Iraq and a request an additional $5.6 billion from Congress to fund the effort.
(ST/KH)