Iraqi forces push deeper into eastern mosul

Here is a summary of the situation:

Iraqi Forces Push Deeper into Eastern Mosul

Iraqi government forces have made significant gains in their battle to retake the city of Mosul from the Islamic State (ISIS) group, pushing deeper into the eastern part of the city.

Key Developments:

• Iraqi forces, backed by US-led coalition airstrikes, have captured several key neighborhoods in eastern Mosul, including the Al-Muhandiseen and Al-Zohour districts.
• The advances have allowed Iraqi forces to gain control of several key roads and highways, including the main highway that connects Mosul to the city of Kirkuk.
• The Iraqi military has also reported the capture of several key buildings, including a former government building and a hospital.
• The push into eastern Mosul comes as Iraqi forces continue to face fierce resistance from ISIS fighters, who are using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and snipers to slow the advance.

Background:

• The battle to retake Mosul, Iraq's second-largest city, began in October 2016 and has been ongoing for over a year.
• The city has been under ISIS control since June 2014, and the group has used it as a key stronghold and base of operations.
• The Iraqi government, backed by a US-led coalition, launched a major offensive to retake Mosul in October 2016, but the battle has been slow and bloody, with both sides suffering significant casualties.

Implications:

• The capture of eastern Mosul would be a significant blow to ISIS, which has used the city as a key base of operations and a symbol of its power.
• The advance would also allow Iraqi forces to gain control of key infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings, which would help to stabilize the city and allow for the return of civilians.
• However, the battle is likely to continue for some time, as ISIS fighters are expected to continue to put up fierce resistance and the city is likely to remain a key target for the group.

Sources:

• Al Jazeera
• Reuters
• BBC News
• The New York Times