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News | March 25, 2015

At the request of PM al-Abadi, Coalition Operations commence in Tikrit

By CJTF - Operation Inherent Resolve News Release

March 25, 2015
Release # 20150325.2

SOUTHWEST ASIA - CJTF-OIR operations to support Iraqi Security Forces in Tikrit have commenced after a request from the Iraqi Prime Minister, Haider al-Abadi. The Coalition is now providing direct support to Iraqi Security Forces conducting operations to expel ISIL from the city. CJTF-OIR is providing air strikes, airborne intelligence capabilities, and Advise and Assist support to Iraqi Security Force headquarters elements in order to enhance their ability to defeat ISIL.

"These strikes are intended to destroy ISIL strongholds with precision, thereby saving innocent Iraqi lives while minimizing collateral damage to infrastructure," said Lt. Gen. James L. Terry, CJTF-OIR commanding general. "This will further enable Iraqi forces under Iraqi command to maneuver and defeat ISIL in the vicinity of Tikrit."

Iraqi Security Forces have ISIL in Tikrit encircled. Renewed efforts on the ground supported by the Coalition are aimed at dislodging ISIL fighting elements from Tikrit and once again placing the town under the Government of Iraq control. The CJTF-OIR Coalition will continue supporting the Iraqi Security Forces and the GoI, to degrade and defeat ISIL.