Iraqi Forces announce second phase of operation to retake Hawija from IS

Iraqi Forces on Friday launched a large-scale military operation to retake the surrounding towns of Hawija from the Islamic State (IS), in what is being called the second phase of the offensive to retake the city.

ERBIL, Iraqi (Kurdistan 24) - Iraqi Forces on Friday launched a large-scale military operation to retake the surrounding towns of Hawija from the Islamic State (IS), in what is being called the second phase of the offensive to retake the city.

In a statement published Friday morning, Prime Minister of Iraq Haider al-Abadi announced the operation, stating that, as promised, "We will liberate every inch of this land."

The objective of the offensive is to recapture the towns of Rashad, Riyadh, Abbasi, and other satellite villages, according to the Iraqi military's statement.

The Federal Police, Rapid Response and Counter-Terrorism teams, the Hashd al-Shaabi also known as the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), and tribal Sunni militia forces are participating in the large-scale operation. The US-led coalition is also providing aerial support, the statement added.

Hawija is a Sunni dominated city located in the southwest of Kirkuk Province. The city is the last IS stronghold in northern Iraq and has been under the occupation of the jihadist group since the mid-2014.

Iraqi and Kurdish Peshmerga Forces recently signed a 5-point agreement on the Hawija offensive. According to the agreement, Peshmerga Forces will provide logistical reinforcement and assistance to Iraqi forces, as well as securing a corridor for civilians fleeing Hawija.

The primary role of the Peshmerga in the battle is to target IS bases with artillery support.

 

Editing by G.H. Renaud