Iraq declares crushing IS militants in key town on road to Mosul

BAGHDAD, Aug 25 (KUNA) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar Al-Abadi announced on Thursday that the regular forces advancing northwards have stormed and captured the town of Al-Qayyarah from the so-called Islamic State (IS) -- signalling success in the ongoing advance toward the key target, Mosul. "The Iraqi forces scored today a great victory taking a crucial move toward the liberation of Mosul," Al-Abadi said, alluding to the armored regular forces that have been carrying out a wide-scale operation to retake cities and strongholds occupied by the militants.
"Daesh" has been dealt "a crushing defeat with the liberation of Al-Qayyarah in Ninawa," the premier said.
He added that the government forces and pro-government paramilitary units have crossed long distances toward Mosul. (end) ah.rk