Who is 'Angel of Death' Abu Azrael and why is his name resurfacing amid Tehran rumours?
A recent viral video that has been widely shared on social media purportedly shows Abu Azrael arriving in Tehran.
SHAH ALAM - A familiar and controversial figure from the Middle East's battlefields is once again making headlines, as unverified reports circulate that Iraqi militia commander Abu Azrael - widely known as 'Angel of Death' has arrived in Tehran.
Social media chatter and pro-Iranian sources claim the fighter, whose real name is Ayoub Falih Hassan al-Rubaie, is in the Iranian capital as tensions rise over a possible United States ground intervention.
A recent viral video that has been widely shared on social media purportedly shows Abu Azrael arriving in Tehran, appearing alongside members of the military, having conversations with people and posing for pictures with locals.
While there has been no official confirmation, the rumours alone have reignited global attention on one of the most recognisable faces of the war against Islamic State (IS).
Abu Azrael first rose to prominence during the 2003 Iraq war, when he fought against US troops as part of the Mahdi Army.
Known for his fierce battlefield persona, Azrael's signature catchphrase - 'Illa Tahin', which simply means 'grind you to dust' spread widely across social media.
Before becoming a militant figure, Abu Azrael was a university lecturer and a taekwondo champion.
His transformation into a battlefield icon came as Iraq mobilised against IS, where he emerged as a key commander within the Popular Mobilisation Forces.
By 2015, Abu Azrael had become a global media figure, appearing on front pages of international outlets across Europe and the United States.
He was also awarded a medal of honour by a representative of Iraq’s top Shi’a religious authority, Sayyid Ahmad al-Safi.
Why is he rumoured to be feared by US forces?
Claims that Abu Azrael is feared by US Special Forces are largely driven by perception and his long history of confronting American troops.
Abu Azrael first fought against US forces during the Iraq war and later took on a prominent role in the fight against IS.
Videos and images of him on the battlefield, often portraying him as relentless and brutal spread widely online.
The latest rumours placing Abu Azrael in Tehran come at a time of heightened geopolitical anxiety, with fears of escalation involving Iran and the United States.
Unverified reports suggested he might be coordinating with the Iran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on potential ground defence strategies.
Download Sinar Daily application.Click Here!
