The Army with the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) launched a large-scale security operation in northern Miqdadiya in Diyala province to eliminate ISIS terrorists.
The Iraqi Army and the PMF forces launched a large-scale operation in Miqdadiya district from four axes to eradicate ISIS sleeper cells and ensure security in the area, the commander of Diyala operations said.
"The operation is based on intelligence received from our agents," Mousavi said, adding that the aim is to drive out ISIL fighters in the Diyala River areas north of Miqdadiya.
A long strip of land between the Peshmerga and Iraqi forces has become a safe haven for remaining ISIS militants. The area is a bare desert land stretching from the middle of Iraq until the Syria border to the northwest. The site is relatively less populated and far from local authorities. ISIS has used the are to recruit and reorganize itself.
Although, a recent agreement between the Iraqi forces and Peshmerga has seen joint commitment to end ISIS presence in the area.