Iraq’s battle against extremists spreads outside of Anbar
Although the Iraqi government launched a military operation in Anbar in December 2013 aimed at eradicating terrorism, it seems the protracted clashes have resulted in terrorist groups expanding their scope to other provinces.
The military operation that was launched by the Iraqi army against the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) in the western Anbar province in December 2013 is still ongoing, without either side making notable progress. However, ISIS’ scope of operations has widened to include other provinces such as Diyala, Salahuddin and Ninevah. This has forced the army to fight new battles in different areas.
Reports circulated that ISIS fighters have been infiltrating already troubled Sunni areas along with the displaced, which caused the scope of military operations to expand amid fears that the army will not be able to fight on all fronts.
Anbar, which lies 110 kilometers (68 miles) to the west of the capital, Baghdad, has been witnessing a massive military operation involving military equipment and attack helicopters as well as militants affiliated with tribes. The operations have extended to the border with Syria and led to the death of several soldiers and ISIS fighters.
Security forces in Diyala announced the launch of a military operation known as the “Revenge for Martyr Farouk” on Feb. 22, to track down ISIS remnants.
