Joint statement on the death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi

The announcement by US President Donald Trump confirming the death of ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is welcomed by Australia. 

Al-Baghdadi died in a US-led raid on his hideout in northwest Syria on 26 October.

He led a murderous, terrorist group responsible for widespread misery and destruction across large parts of Iraq and Syria.

He also inspired or directed cowardly attacks by ISIS followers against innocent civilians around the world, some of whom were Australian.

He was responsible for ordering ethnic cleansing, sexual slavery, and other crimes against humanity.

Al-Baghdadi’s death is a significant blow to ISIS and another important step in preventing its revitalisation. It is important to remember his death does not represent the end of the campaign to defeat this terrorist group and the extremism it embodies. 

ISIS and its perverted ideology continue to pose security threats in the Middle East region and beyond.

Australia remains an active contributor to the 79-member Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, and is committed to playing our part in the evolving counter-terrorism fight. Keeping Australians safe from terrorist attacks remains a foremost priority for the Government.

Australian Defence Force personnel continue to support Coalition operations against ISIS.

The Australian Government thanks Australian and Coalition military forces who, for many years, have helped in the efforts to defeat ISIS.

We honour the courage and sacrifice of Iraqi Security Forces in the liberation of their land from the ruthless occupation of ISIS.

We also restate our deep respect for the Syrian Democratic Forces, who have been steadfast and courageous security partners in the counter-ISIS coalition.

Australia will continue to work closely with Coalition partners and the wider international community to counter ISIS, including by stemming their financing, and stopping terrorist groups using the internet as a tool of recruitment and propaganda.

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