The Iraqi Army seizes the al-Hurriya Bridge in the latest push to retake Mosul from ISIL.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Iraqi Army has seized the al-Hurriya Bridge, a spokesperson reports, in the latest push to retake Mosul from ISIL.
It’s the second bridge to be captured in the city.
Al-Hurriya leads to the ISIL-held old city from the south.
In total, five bridges cross the Tigris River, which splits Mosul in two.
All have been destroyed, but its hoped their capture and repair will help the US-backed Iraqi forces drive out the jihadists, who took control of the northern city in 2014.
Mosul is the militants’ last major stronghold in the country. A successful mission would wipe out the Iraqi wing of ISIL’s self-declared caliphate.
Eastern Mosul was retaken by government forces in January, 2017, after 100 days of conflict. The offensive to seize western districts began two weeks ago (February 19).
Since the battle for #Mosul began, we've provided medicines and medical supplies that have helped treat 350,000 people. But more is needed. pic.twitter.com/CV89JzaeD9
— ICRC (@ICRC) March 5, 2017
Intensified fighting has forced thousands to flee the city, aid agencies report.
Tears of joy and relief as man with daughter escapes ISIS-contolled part of Mosul, Iraq. https://t.co/k79bBS2qKe pic.twitter.com/K3Av1TVwXj
— Kenneth Roth (@KenRoth) March 6, 2017