Iraqi forces on Tuesday started the liberation of Qiara district in southern Mosul from Daesh militants.

Spokesman for the Joint Operations Command Brigadier General Yehia el Zubeidi said several military sectors took part in the operation, while the Iraqi warjets along with international coalition planes carried out air raids on the area.

Spokesman for Anti-Terrorism Authority Sabah el Noaman said Daesh militants are fleeing the shelled areas, while Iraqi troops are making progress on the ground.

Iraqi forces have started the liberation of Mosul, capital of the Iraqi Nineveh province, on June 18 with the participation of anti-terrorism squads, the army's 9th Battalion as well as tribal forces under air coverage by the Iraqi Air Forces and international coalition warjets.

Iraqi troops have successfully liberated Qiara Air Base, located 60 kilometers off Mosul. Operations are underway to liberate surrounding villages and clear them from Daesh hidouts.

Source: MENA