Algeria

The Friday forest ambush blamed on Islamic extremists in the rugged Ain Defla province southwest of the capital of Algiers comes after a string of successes by the army against the country's long-running insurgency.

Sunday's statement said the army conducted search operations after the attack, which also wounded two soldiers. It said the ambush only reinforced the army's determination to stop the militants.

The commander said Saturday the attack took place Friday in Ain Defla province, 240 kilometers (150 miles) from Algiers, the capital. He spoke on condition of anonymity because the military had yet to issue an official statement. The attack was also reported in the local press.

The attack comes as Algeria and much of the rest of the Muslim world are celebrating the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, one of the main holidays of the year.

Mokhtar Belmokhtar and other fighters were killed in the operation in the eastern city of Ajdabiya, a statement from Libya's government said.

However, there have been incorrect reports of his death in the past.

The Pentagon has confirmed Belmokhtar was the target of a strike but has not said if he was killed.

"We are continuing to assess the results of the operation and will provide more details as appropriate," said Pentagon Spokesman Steve Warren.