Bathing in relief

Video. Bathing in relief

On the banks of the Tigris river, men sat and watched, smiling with relief as Iraqi policemen, soldiers and local youths bathed in muddy spring water in a town that was recaptured from Islamic State just a few days ago.

On the banks of the Tigris river, men sat and watched, smiling with relief as Iraqi policemen, soldiers and local youths bathed in muddy spring water in a town that was recaptured from Islamic State just a few days ago.

Residents of the area said they were unable to reap the benefits of the springs for more than two years under the rule of Islamic State, who prohibited anyone from going there.