(VOVworld)-Iraqi forces, backed by a US-led international coalition, launched a new offensive early Monday to advance into central Mosul, along the west bank of the Tigris River, to drive out Islamic State (ISIS) militants. The operation included Iraqi police forces and elite Interior Ministry units.

Iraqi forces fire rockets at ISIS targets during an operation to liberate Mosul. (Photo: AFP/VNA)

Meanwhile, Iraqi troops encountered strong resistance from ISIS fighters in western Mosul as Counter Terrorism Service forces launched attacks on ISIS targets.

A victory over ISIS in Mosul, its last stronghold in Iraq, will put an end to ISIS’s dream of establishing an Islamic state in the Middle East.