Islamic State plans suicide attacks in desert regions in Anbar: source
Iraqi troops drive armored vehicles during a military operation in Iraq
Speaking to Almaalomah website on Thursday, the source said, “information provided by the intelligence of security troops indicated intentions of Islamic State members to carry out suicide attacks targeting regions of Rutba, Qaim and Akashat in west of Anbar, which urged security troops to tighten measures there.”
The militants, according to the source, “try to boost the spirits of its elements through suicide attacks at these regions, especially that huge losses were inflicted on the group in Syria, which forced it to step back.”
Security troops, “noticed presence of militants in deserts of these regions, however, some militants are still in hideouts at desert areas,” the source added.
Thousands of Islamic State militants as well as Iraqi civilians were killed since the government campaign, backed by paramilitary troops and the coalition was launched in October 2016 to fight the militant group, which declared a self-styled “caliphate” from Mosul in June 2014.
Islamic State continues to launch sporadic attacks across Iraq against troops. Security reports indicate that the militant group still poses threat against stability in the country.
A total of 76 people were killed and 129 others were injured due to acts of terrorism, violence and armed conflicts during the month of June, casualty figures recorded by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI).