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            Iraq Forces, Backed by Peshmerga, Move on Mosul Villages

   by VOA News

   Iraqi forces, backed by Kurdish Peshmerga fighters, have launched an
   offensive against Islamic State-held villages southeast of Mosul.

   Forces from two Iraqi brigades, from Iraq's U.S.-trained 15th Division,
   were leading the fight, Peshmerga General Hussein Nooraldin told VOA.

   Also involved were members of Sunni tribes, which many Peshmerga
   commanders have said are crucial in being able to hold the
   traditionally Sunni areas.

   "They are trying to clear this area because it is important," Nooraldin
   said, describing that it included one of the roads between Mosul and
   the city of Kirkuk to the east, as well as the Qayyarah bridge across
   the Tigris river.

   ''

   The offensive was launched from Makhmour, where a U.S. Marine was
   recently killed in an IS rocket attack. Iraqi forces have been
   gathering in the area in recent weeks. Makhmour is one of the staging
   points for the anticipated battle for Mosul.

   The general, who is based northeast of Mosul, said the Peshmerga were
   involved in "a supporting role."

   Local reports said coalition airstrikes had been hitting the villages.
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   [1]http://www.voanews.com/content/iraq-forces-backed-by-kurdish-peshmer
   ga-move-on-mosul-villages/3252380.html

References

   1. http://www.voanews.com/content/iraq-forces-backed-by-kurdish-peshmerga-move-on-mosul-villages/3252380.html