War Preparations To Retake Mosul From The Islamic State Intensify

The Guardian: 'Last battle' against Isis in Iraq: forces mass for Mosul assault

Attack on group’s last urban stronghold in Iraq is most critical challenge yet to its ‘caliphate’ which led to exodus of refugees

Iraqi and Kurdish forces are finalising plans to attack the last urban stronghold of Islamic State in Iraq, the northern city of Mosul, which after a month-long buildup is now largely surrounded by a 60,000-strong force.

The assault could begin as early as this weekend and is the most critical challenge yet to Isis’s two-year-old “caliphate”, which had shredded state authority in the region’s heartland, led to a mass exodus of refugees, attempted a genocide of minorities and led to grave doubts over Iraq’s viability.

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More News On War Preparations To Retake Mosul From The Islamic State Intensifying

Iraqi army prepares to retake Mosul -- Eeuronews
US-led coalition ramps up airstrikes on ISIS-held Mosul -- AP
Airstrikes hit Islamic State targets in preparation for assault on Mosul, Iraq -- UPI
Airstrikes on ISIL increase ahead of battle for Mosul -- USA Today
Iraqi Special Forces Arrive Outside Militant-Held Mosul -- AP
Daesh Rigs Mosul With Bombs Ahead of US-Backed Iraqi Offensive -- Sputnik
Inside ISIS-held Mosul: Resistance fighters defying occupation -- CNN
As Iraqi Forces Prepare To Attack Mosul, A Civilian Exodus Could Follow -- NPR
Aid Groups Fear Battle for Mosul Will Be Disaster for Civilians -- VOA
As Iraqi city of Mosul braces for battle with ISIS, its people recall gentler times -- CNN
The battle for Mosul: What lies ahead -- Global Risk Insights
Mosul is 'going to get messy,' analysts predict -- RUDAW