Iraq claims town near Syrian border

BAGHDAD: Iraqi forces on Saturday claimed control of a western town near the Syrian border from IS, hours after they started a major offensive against the extremist group there. The government forces and tribal fighters have “completely liberated” the town of Akashat, a media centre linked to the operation said, according to state television Al Iraqia. “Mop-up operations are still under way,” the centre added in a statement without further details. Earlier on Saturday, a military official announced the start of the campaign supported by a US-led air alliance.