Iraqi forces fully retake Mosul
US coalition confirms IS has lost major stronghold
USA TODAY
The last major Iraqi city held by the Islamic State has been taken back by Iraqi government forces, the U.S.-led coalition confirmed Monday.
Iraqi security forces were continuing to clear Mosul’s Old City of explosive devices, but “Mosul is now firmly under their control,” U.S. Central Command said.
Lt. Gen. Stephen Townsend, commanding general of Operation Inherent Resolve, congratulated Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi and the Iraqi military on their “historic victory against a brutal and evil enemy.”
“Make no mistake — this victory alone does not eliminate ISIS, and there is still a tough fight ahead,” Townsend said. “But the loss of one of its twin capitals and a jewel of their socalled caliphate is a decisive blow.”
“From the heart of the free and liberated Mosul, by the sacrifices of the Iraqis from all the provinces, we announce the awaited victory to all of Iraq,” al-Abadi said. “This great feast day crowned the victories of the fighters and the Iraqis of the past three years.”
The U.S. military has about 5,500 troops in Iraq supporting the Iraqi military, while the coalition’s daily airstrikes have battered IS finances and leadership.
Mosul fell to Islamic State militants in June 2014. The assault to retake it began nine months ago, with Iraqi military forces supported by the U.S.backed coalition that provided airstrikes and intelligence.
But the damage has been overwhelming. Thousands of civilians died in bombings, assassinations and other attacks. IS destroyed numerous cultural treasures.