Iraqi State TV Says Large-Scale Operation to Recapture Tikrit Begins

[Hissyspit]

Source: Associated Press

Iraq state TV: Large-scale military operation to recapture Saddam Hussein's hometown begins

By ASSOCIATED PRESS
March 02, 2015 - 12:55 AM

BAGHDAD — Iraq's state TV says government forces backed by allied Shiite and Sunni fighters have begun a large-scale military operation to recapture Saddam Hussein's hometown from the Islamic State extremist group.

Al-Iraqiya television said Monday that the forces were attacking the city of Tikrit, backed by artillery and airstrikes by Iraqi fighter jets. It said the militants were dislodged from some areas outside the city, but gave no details.

Hours ahead of the operation, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi called on Sunni tribal fighters to abandon the extremist group, promising them a pardon.

Read more: http://www.startribune.com/world/294608711.html

[msongs]

1. the media giving away secrets again lol nt

[Drunken Irishman]

2. Wow. Good luck to 'em.

[Fearless]

3. It only took a more violent group to unite them.

Let's see how long it lasts this time.

[muriel_volestrangler]

4. Involving many Iranians, according to reports

A Shia militia commander has told the BBC that Iran's Gen Qasem Soleimani is also taking part in the operation.
...
He added that the Iranians had been involved in the Tikrit operation for the last two days.
...
Tehran says it has only sent troops to advise Iraqi security forces personnel, Kurdish Peshmerga fighters and Shia militiamen.

However, members of the Guards and the Quds Force are widely believed to be involved in combat operations, including those that have benefited from US-led coalition air strikes.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-31689433

[Comrade Grumpy]

5. Iran and the US are on the same side in this. Something to ponder.

[romanic]

6. Territory perhaps?

Or more specific, oil?

[muriel_volestrangler]

7. Fierce clashes rage around Iraqi city of Tikrit

Fierce clashes are taking place around the Iraqi city of Tikrit, as soldiers and militiamen attack Islamic State positions in the centre, officials say.

Battles were reported in the suburb of al-Dour, the western al-Zuhur district, the northern area of Qadisiya, and near the Teaching Hospital in the south.

But the government advance has been slowed by roadside bombs planted by IS.

Iranian commanders are helping to co-ordinate the operation, which is not backed by US-led coalition air strikes.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-31708996