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Iraqi PM affirms keenness on civilian safety in Fallujah operation

BAGHDAD, May 25 (KUNA) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar Al-Abadi received ambassadors of Muslim nations based in Baghdad Wednesday to reassure them on commitment of the army to protect the safety of civilians in Fallujah city in the central province of Al-Anbar.
"The military and security forces do their utmost to separate the civilians from the terrorists and provide the civilians with safe havens," he told the diplomats, noting that the military offensive is well underway.
Al-Abadi noted that the army has had successful experiences in protecting the safety of civilians, citing the military conduct during the recent liberation of Hit and Al-Rutba towns.
The Iraqi forces, backed by the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and local tribal militias, started a massive offensive to recapture the city from the so-called Islamic State (IS) group two days ago.
Commenting on criticism of the PMF participation in the offensive, Al-Abadi said these paramilitary troops represent one of the state institutions which are fall under the authority of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
"The PMF are funded by the government and are innocent of the sectarian accusations levelled by some condemnable parties or hostile mass media," he stressed.
The prime minister affirmed that the coming days will see the liberation of the city and Mosul city, later on, from the militant group. (end) ahh.gb