Unidentified gunmen assassinate Iran-linked Iraqi commander in Syria

An Iraqi national serving as a commander in the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was assassinated by unidentified gunmen in Deir Ez-Zor, Syria.

Ruqayah Kazem Al-Sudani, also known as Umm Zainab, was killed by unidentified gunmen in Deir Ezzor city, in areas controlled by regime forces and Iranian-backed militias on September 15, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).

Her body was found in an abandoned building in the Al-Muwazzafein neighbourhood of the city.

Al-Sudani had lived in Damascus for a long period before relocating to Al-Bukamal city, where she helped establish the so-called “Al-Asdiqaa Office” (the Friends Office). She then moved to Al-Mayadeen city and eventually to Deir Ez-Zor.

Al-Sudani was known for her strong loyalty to Iran and the IRGC, serving Iranian interests in the city. She faced accusations of involvement in several assassinations, as well as recruiting children and women for the Iranian Cultural Centre. She also maintained strong connections with various military leaders, including Iranians.

While no Iraqis are officially known to be part of the IRGC, the organisation wields significant influence over several Iraqi factions, particularly through its Quds Force. This branch of the IRGC has been instrumental in shaping the actions and allegiances of these factions, especially concerning security and military coordination.