Iraqi forces have launched an operation aiming at cutting off Islamic State (ISIS) supply routes in western Anbar province. The operation codenamed aljazira—backed by Shiite militia forces—is to squeeze ISIS militants out of vast territories they hold west of the country. "These operations will play a significant role in cutting all the supply routes in areas still under the terrorists' control," Reuters news agency quoted the military spokesman, Brigadier General Yahya Rasool. According to Colonel Mohammed al-Asadi, a military spokesman, the offensive will focus on clearing areas west of Fallujah and Tharthar of the militants who sought refuge there after the liberation of Mosul in December. "Iraqi army, federal police, counter-terrorism forces and Hashid Shaabi are participating in the military campaign and were deployed on the fronts with air support from the Iraqi and coalition air force," al-Asadi said. The commander of the Jazira operations Brigader Ali Aboud was reportedly killed in an ISIS suicide attack in Haditha in western Anbar on Tuesday.
