Iraqi forces finish IS grip on 40 villages

IRBIL, Sept 22 (KUNA) -- Iraq's government forces have liberated more than 40 villages from the so-called Islamic State (ISDaesh) in the operation to free Al-Hwaija.
Abdulamir Yarallah, commander of Al-Hawija Liberation Operations, listed in a statement the liberated villages, including Tal-Baer, Tal Al-Hawa and Al-Akraa.
The Iraqi Government troops, backed by paramilitary forces, are pressing on to clear up last strongholds of the militant group in northwestern and western Iraq.
The regulars have pursued military operations since July, when they carried out a major battle that ended with liberating the city of Mosul.
The IS military presence in Iraq is gradually dwindling due to the ongoing successful military offensives. (end) sbr.rk