Iraqi Forces Recapture Strategic Town near Mosul


28/04/2017 - 01:54





ISTANBUL

Iraqi forces on Thursday recaptured the strategic town of Hatra, with its roads linking the provinces of Nineveh, Salaheddin and Anbar.

Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), also known as Hashed al-Shaabi recaptured the town from Islamic State (IS) militants.

The town is located about 120 kilometers away from Mosul, but is of importance to the IS for its roads linking multiple provinces, which can be utilized for resupplying its fronts with weapons and fighters.

"Hashed Al Shaabi forces fully liberated Hatra town in record time,” said the Iraqi Army Staff Lieutenant General Abdulamir Yarallah, as reported by The Jordan Times.

According to Yarallah, IS militants incurred “heavy losses.”

He also noted that Iraqi flags were hoisted above key buildings following the victorious battle over the terrorist group over the town.


An archilogical site in Hatra’s vicinity was recaptured by the PMF on Wednesday.

The site has been damaged by IS militants. However, the extent of the damage is as of now uncertain.


Currently, PMF is clearing the western part of town from planted bombs and booby-traps left by the IS.

Approximately 5,500 civilians and 16,000 sheep had been evacuated from the area.

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