LOC18:31
15:31 GMT
WASHINGTON, Oct 20 (KUNA) -- The US congratulated the Syrian people and Syrian Democratic Forces on the announcement of the liberation of Raqqa, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson announced Friday.
"Our work is far from over but the liberation of Raqqa is a critical milestone in the global fight against (IS), and underscores the success of the ongoing international and Syrian effort to defeat these terrorists," Tillerson said.
Raqqa was first seized by IS in 2014 in which the city was declared the so-called caliphate by the group.
The US and other coalition members are now working to remove explosives left by IS and get humanitarian assistance to vulnerable populations. It has also stated support for the Raqqa Civil Council and other local Syrian actors "to re-establish basic security and deliver essential services to stabilize communities," said the Secretary.
The success "marks the beginning of a new phase" in the Syrian conflict; as IS is defeated and violence is reduced, the country will be "aimed at reaching a genuine political transition that honors the will of the Syrian people," said Tillerson.
"(IS)'s loss of Raqqa does not mean our fight against (IS) is over. The Global Coalition will continue to draw on all elements of national power - military, intelligence, diplomacy, economic, law enforcement, and the strength of our communities," Tillerson asserted. (pickup previous)
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