Iraq’s security forces launched on Thursday an aerial operation on the militant-held city of Tikrit and seized control of its strategically located university, officials told AFP.

Dozens of Iraqi security forces clashed with militants belonging to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) after being flown into the area by helicopters.

The security forces eventually gained control of the university.

The operation aims at facilitating the recapture of the city that was seized by the insurgents on June 11.

The assault in Tikrit, hometown of executed dictator Saddam Hussein, takes place as Iraq’s vice president called on the country’s parliament to convene, in what would be the first step toward the formation of a new government in order for the country to unite against ISIS and other armed militants.

(With AFP and AP)



Last Update: Wednesday, 20 May 2020 KSA 09:42 - GMT 06:42