Iraqi forces prepare for offensive in the Western part of Mosul. About it reports Reuters, citing Lieutenant General Abdul Amir Rashid Arallu responsible for overall management of the operation.
According to Erally, preparation will take another two or three days. A significant role in the attack is given “the Forces of popular mobilization” (CNM) — a coalition of Shiite militias, created in 2014 to combat “Islamic state.” Last year it officially became part of the Iraqi armed forces.
Monday, January 23, the Iraqi military officially announced the establishment of control over the Eastern part of Mosul. The first reports about this appeared five days before, but it was later revealed that it is necessary to eliminate pockets of resistance. The battle for the districts on the left Bank of the Tigris river lasted more than three months.
Ground military operation to liberate the city began on 17 October 2016. It involved units of the regular Iraqi army, the Kurdish militia and formation of volunteers. The international coalition led by the United States provides air and artillery support.
Mosul — the second largest city of Iraq, the unofficial capital of Iraqi territories controlled by the terrorist group ISIS.