(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) The Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) launched "successful counterattacks" against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), which prevented the group from gaining further ground, the Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR) announced in a statement Thursday.
"The Iraqis defeated four separate ISIL attacks in the areas of Kisik, western Kirkuk, Bayji, and Habbaniyah," the statement said.
"In Habbaniyah, ISIL unsuccessfully employed two vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs) and 12 suicide bombers in an effort to retake the Habbaniyah Bridge, based on initial reports," it revealed.
The statement also affirmed that CJTF-OIR supported the ISF and Peshmerga fighters' defense through airstrikes, ongoing advice and assist operations, airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
Meanwhile, Task Force Spokesperson Colonel Wayne Marotto said the Iraqis are gaining ground and their capabilities continue to improve, noting that "the tables are turning."
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.