Iraqi army begins second phase of key anti-IS offensiveSeptember 29, 2017 - 11:22 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Iraqi military command announced the second phase of their Hawija offensive this morning after successfully liberating a large chunk of territory in the districts to the north of this area, Al-Masdar News reports. Led by Hashd Al-Sha’abi (Popular Mobilization Units), the Iraqi Armed Forces will attempt to liberate the remaining areas in Al-Shirqat, while also securing the eastern bank of the Euphrates River. Hawija is the Islamic State’s last stronghold in central Iraq; its proximity to the oil rich city of Baiji makes this operation a top priority for the Iraqi military command. Reuters. AFP/AHMAD AL-RUBAYE Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |