12 IS militants killed in clashes with Peshmerga in Salahuddin

Salahuddin (IraqiNews.com) Twelve Islamic State militants, including a prominent leader, were killed in clashes with Kurdish troops in Salahuddin, a security source from the province said.

“IS militants attacked early on Tuesday Peshermga troops deployed in Zarka axis, west of Tuz Khurmatu. Fierce clashes left around twelve militants and one personnel killed,” the source told AlSumaria News.

“The killed militants included leader called Abu Abdullah al-Ansari,” the source, who preferred anonymity, added.

Earlier this month, fourteen Peshmerga personnel were killed and injured as the militant group launched an attack against forces deployed in Zarka region.

Peshmerga fighters have been part of the U.S.-backed military campaign to retake IS-held areas which launched in October.

Occasional attacks carried out by infiltrating IS militants occur in western regions of Tuz Khurmatu.

Pivotal regions that link between each of Diyala, Salahuddin and Kirkuk, are still held by the militants which poses threats to the liberated regions. Iraqi troops are urged to prevent the militants infiltration between Salahuddin and Kirkuk provinces, especially the regions stretching along Hamreen mountains and Al-Azeem town.

The government is expected to launch military offensives at the few remaining IS havens, including the ones in Salahuddin.