Military parade to celebrate victory against Islamic State in Iraq
Iraq holds military parade to celebrate victory against Islamic State.
In a statement on Sunday, the office said, “the military parade of Iraqi troops began in attendance of the Commander-in-chief of the armed forces Haidar al-Abadi.”
An informed source said, “the parade will take part in participation of the Iraqi army, Federal Police and Counter-Terrorism Service as well as other troops, with al-Hashd al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilization Forces) on top.”
In related news, another security source indicated tight security measures were taken in the center of the capital to “secure the citizens celebrating the victory against IS.”
Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi announced on Saturday full liberation of Iraqi lands, declaring end of war against IS members.
Iraqi forces, backed by a U.S.-led coalition and paramilitary troops, have been fighting since October 2016 to retake territories Islamic State had occupied.
Abadi’s declaration came after Lt. Gen. Abdul Amir Yarallah, commander of Upper Euphrates and Jazirah Combing Operations, announced liberation of all Iraqi lands from IS.
In November, Abadi said his country has defeated Islamic State over the military level, but will declare final victory after desert areas are purged of militants.