Iraqi Forces Start Operation to Recapture Fallujah
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iraqi troops and voluntary forces have launched an operation to cleanse the city of Fallujah in al-Anbar province of Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorists.
The operation to liberate Fallujah has come as security forces on Sunday tightened the siege on ISIL militants in the city.
Local media quoted Iraqi sources as saying that all escape routes have been closed for ISIL militants, and forces are ready to retake the city.
The Iraqi Air Force is also expected to participate in the operation to recapture the major city of Anbar province.
Fallujah lies between Baghdad and Anbar’s provincial capital of Ramadi, which is under ISIL control. The city’s liberation will choke off the militants’ supply lines.
The northern and western parts of Iraq have been plagued by violence ever since Takfiri ISIL militants began their march through Iraqi territory in June 2014.
Army soldiers and volunteer fighters have joined forces, and are seeking to take back militant-held regions in joint operations.