Iraq’s latest advances reconnect Ramadi to key base, BaghdadFebruary 9, 2016 - 16:18 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Iraqi forces recaptured territory from Islamic State militants on Tuesday, February 9 which links the recently recaptured city of Ramadi to a major army base in western Iraq, the military said, according to Reuters. A statement broadcast on state television said the army, police and counter-terrorism forces had retaken several areas including the town of Husaiba al-Sharqiya, about 10 km east of Ramadi. "(Our forces) also managed to open the road from Ramadi to Baghdad which passes through al-Khaldiya," the statement added, referring to a highway that links the city to the Habbaniya base where U.S.-led coalition forces are located. Iraq's army declared victory in December over Islamic State in Ramadi, the provincial capital west of Baghdad. It was the first major gain for the U.S.-trained force since it collapsed in the face of an assault by the militants in 2014. Government forces are still dismantling bombs planted in Ramadi, and much of the city's infrastructure needs to be rebuilt. Tuesday's advance boosts government efforts to close in on Falluja, the Islamic State stronghold located between Ramadi and Baghdad which is besieged by the army and Iranian-backed Shi'ite militias. 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. |