Iraq gains full control of Bayji oil refinery

WASHINGTON, April 19 (KUNA) -- Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) regained full control of the Bayji Oil Refinery after clearing the facility of any remaining ISIL fighters, said the Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve in a statement on Sunday.
ISF reinforcements and supplies have arrived and the coalition continues to provide aviation fires and reconnaissance, as well as advise and assist elements to the on-going operations in and around Bayji, the statement indicated.
"The ISIL clearly used the opportunity to attack the Oil Refinery facility in order to bolster its on-line propaganda activities," said CJTF-OIR Commander James L. Terry. "ISF personnel have demonstrated great resolve and proven that the tactical momentum resides with them, not only in Bayji, but in many other locations throughout Iraq." The coalition conducted 47 airstrikes in and around Bayji in the past 9 days. (end) ak.mt