Iraq forces push into IS bastion of Hawija: commander

Iraqi forces pushed into the Islamic State group bastion of Hawija today, stepping up their assault against one the jihadists' last enclaves in the country, the operation's commander said.

"With God's help, the army, the federal police and the rapid response force began a major operation on Wednesday to liberate the centre of Hawija and the neighbouring town of Riyadh," Lieutenant General Abdel Amir Yarallah said in a statement.