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Islamic State steps up attacks in Iraq during coronavirus lockdown

The Islamic State launched numerous attacks in Iraq's disputed territories in April amid a lockdown to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
Iraqi security forces are seen during military operations to search for Islamic State militants in Anbar province, Iraq December 29, 2019. REUTERS/Thaier Al-Sudani - RC275E9K0C8B

Iraq has been hit by a wave of Islamic State (IS) attacks during the country’s coronavirus lockdown.

Numerous operations by IS and unknown groups have occurred in Iraq’s disputed territories in April. Iraqi security forces and the US-led anti-IS coalition have also attacked the group several times this month. One journalist in the disputed city of Kirkuk said the uptick began after the government imposed a curfew March 17 to fight the spread of the virus.

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