Iraqi forces launch offensive against IS in Anbar

Iraqi forces on Tuesday began an operation to recapture the Islamic State’s (IS) last remaining stronghold in Anbar Province near the border with Syria, a military source said. According to the source, Iraqi soldiers, Anbar provincial police, and Iranian-backed Shia militia Hashd al-Shaabi began advancing on the town of Anah in the morning. Their progress was slowed down by booby-traps and mines planted by IS militants, the source told the BBC. Anah, located 90 kilometers (55 miles) from the border with Syria, is one of three Iraqi towns in the Euphrates river valley still under the control of the extremist group. The military source said Iraqi troops in Anah and the surrounding areas were being supported by the US-led coalition’s air strikes as well as military advisors on the ground. The US-led Operation Inherent Resolve campaign against IS’ spokesperson confirmed the information on Twitter on Tuesday.