Iraq launches operation to retake western Mosul from ISIS
- 7 years ago
The Iraqi government has launched an official battle to liberate western Mosul from the Islamic State. Government forces took control of several villages in the south of the city within the first few hours of the operation. The offensive was formally announced by Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, following concerns of trapped citizens. It is believed that up to 650,000 civilians are currently trapped by ISIS. Leaflets warning residents of the incoming offensive were dropped over the western part of the city.