Iraqi forces launch fresh advance against islamic state inside mosul

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Iraqi Forces Launch Fresh Advance Against Islamic State Inside Mosul

Iraqi forces have launched a new push to retake the last remaining districts of Mosul from the Islamic State (IS) group, according to military officials and local sources.

The advance, which began on Sunday, aims to capture the Old City, a densely populated area that has been a stronghold of IS militants. The city has been under IS control since June 2014.

The Iraqi army, backed by coalition airstrikes and special forces, has been making slow progress in the face of fierce resistance from IS fighters. The militants have been using civilians as human shields and booby-trapping buildings to slow the advance.

The Old City is a maze of narrow streets and ancient buildings, making it a challenging terrain for the Iraqi forces. The area is also home to several important landmarks, including the Al-Nuri Mosque, which was destroyed by IS in June 2017.

The Iraqi government has been urging civilians to flee the area, but many have chosen to stay, fearing IS reprisals if they leave.

The battle for Mosul has been ongoing since October 2016, and the city's liberation is seen as a crucial step in defeating IS in Iraq. The group has lost control of most of its territory in the country, but it still maintains a presence in the western desert region.

The Iraqi forces have made significant gains in recent weeks, capturing several key districts and pushing IS fighters back towards the Tigris River. However, the fight is expected to be intense and bloody, with both sides suffering heavy casualties.

The United Nations has warned of a humanitarian crisis in Mosul, with thousands of civilians trapped in the city and in need of aid. The organization has called for a ceasefire and for all parties to prioritize the safety of civilians.