BAGHDAD (Sputnik) — Last week, Iraqi security forces were preparing an offensive to clear Daesh from its stronghold in the Hawija district of northern Kirkuk province, which was perceived as a major step toward liberation of Mosul, the de facto Daesh capital in Iraq. According to the diplomatic sources, the Mosul offensive is expected to start in several days.
"Iraqi planes entered [the airspace of] Mosul to prepare for future military operations," the source said.
Mosul has been under control of Daesh since 2014, and remains their main stronghold. The US-led coalition of more than 60 nations has been conducting airstrikes against Daesh in Iraq since then.
