Iraqi troops launch operation to liberate more IS-held regions in Anbar
Representational photo.
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) Iraqi joint troops have started on Tuesday an offensive to liberate Islamic State’s havens in west of Anbar, the military media said.
Al-Jazeera troops, backed by the Tribal Mobilization Forces launched wide-scale campaign to liberate al-Rayhana region as well as Annah town from IS, according to the Defense Ministry’s War Media Cell.
Meanwhile, Alghad Press reported that the militant group prevented civilians from fleeing toward the western side of the town, forcing them to stay at homes. However, the website’s correspondent said the troops are cautious in order not to harm civilians.
Moreover, a security source was quoted saying that the militants “completely evacuated Rayhana. Army forces started purging the road leading to Annah from planted landmines.”
“Troops are advancing toward Rayhana amid heavy shelling and air raids by the U.S.-led Coalition,” the source said.
Iraqi joint troops managed earlier this week to liberate Akashat region, between Rutba town, on borders with Jordan, and Qaim, on borders with Syria.
Anbar’s western towns of Anah, Qaim and Rawa are still held by the extremist group since 2014, when it occupied one third of Iraq to proclaim a self-styled Islamic Caliphate. Iraqi troops were able to return life back to normal in the biggest cities of Anbar including Fallujah, Ramadi and others after recapturing them.
Fighter jets from the Iraqi army and the international coalition regularly pound IS locations in the province.