(VOVworld) – Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Al Abadi said Iraq has begun a military operation to retake Fallujah in Anbar province from Islamic State.

Iraqi security forces gather Sunday on the outskirts of Fallujah. (photo: Ahmad al-Rubaye / AFP -- Getty Images)

He said Iraqi forces including the federal police soldiers and militias from tribes supporting the government, will engage in the campaign to retake the city, about 50 km west of Baghdad.
Government forces have made new gains in Anbar province, including in Ramadi, and has tightened its noose around Fallujah.