Strong partnership highlights cooperation for Mosul offensive

U.S. Air Force Col. John Dorrian, Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman, addresses the media during a joint press conference at Makhmur, Iraq, Nov. 1, 2016. Reporters were updated about the ongoing operations in the fight against ISIL. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Ian Ryan)

MAKHMOUR, Iraq – Key military leaders from the Iraqi Army, Counter Terrorism Service, Peshmerga forces and the Coalition addressed the media Nov. 1, 2016, during a joint press conference at the Ninawa Operations Complex in Makhmour, Iraq.

The meeting validated the unprecedented cooperation between the Iraqi security forces and the Peshmerga as they work together to liberate villages along multiple axis for the Mosul offensive.

Air Force Colonel John Dorrian, CJTF spokesman said, “Daesh has no answer for the unified ISF and Pesh. We are pleased as a Coalition of 60 nations to provide loyal support at Qayyarah West [Airfield] and strikes to advance ISF ground movement.”

Dorrian also referenced the impacts of the government of Iraq-approved strikes. “We are using precision-guided missiles to maintain the structure and validity of the city and security of the people. This is a top priority for the Iraqi prime minister and the Coalition.”

Australian Brig. Gen. Roger Noble, deputy commanding general for Combined Joint Forces Land Component Command – Operation Inherent Resolve, greets an Iraqi police officer after a joint press conference at Makhmur, Iraq, Nov. 1, 2016. Reporters were updated about the ongoing operations in the fight against ISIL. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Ian Ryan)

Iraqi Brig. Gen. Yahya Rasool, Iraqi army spokesman for the Joint Military Command stated, “We have the northern axis with the Iraqi army and the eastern access with the CTS and the southeastern with the 9th IA. There has been full cooperation of all forces.”

Counterterrorism Service (CTS) Spokesmen Mr. Sabah Noori stated, “Our forces have lots of responsibility and will meet the objective. I'm very impressed with the cooperation along all the axis. All are moving on time, which is important as we continue to cooperate with our brothers. This will end soon in our favor."

Defense Ministry's spokesman, Iraqi Brig. Gen. Tahseen Ibrahim stated, "[The Iraqi government] provide logistics and supplies for Individual Displace Personnel. We have also opened up safe routes as we work to preserve infrastructure during the strike campaign."