Kurdish, Democratic Syrian and US forces have begun what they hope will be the fianl assault on ISIL's Syrian stronghold, Raqqa.
ADVERTISEMENTWith the Kurdish YPG alongside Syrian Democratic Forces and backed by US air power and special forces, the final assault on
ISIL’s capital in Syria, Raqqa, has begun.
Fighting is taking place on several fronts, and the east of the city has reportedly been breached.
“Morale is high and military readiness to implement the military plan is complete and in coordination with the US-led coalition to fight terrorism,” said SDF spokesman Talal Sillo.
It is estimated some 3000 to 4000 ISIL fighters are dug in in the city, and it is expected they will fight to the death.
Ahead of the assault the city was softened up by repeated airstrikes. On Monday it was reported 21 civilians had died in one air raid.