Iraq launches operation to retake western Mosul from ISIS

Iraqi forces have launched a major military operation to retake the western part of Mosul from Daesh, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi announced, RT reports.

“We announce the start of a new phase in the operation, we are coming to Nineveh to liberate the western side of Mosul,” Abadi said in a brief televised address, referring to the province of which Mosul is the capital.

“Our forces are beginning the liberation of the citizens from the terror of Daesh,” Abadi added.