On Mosul frontlines, Islamic State's local fighters direct the battle


MOSUL, Iraq (Reuters) - As Iraqi government forces advanced towards his eastern Mosul neighbourhood in November, a group of Islamic State militants stormed Abu Rami's home, put a gun to his head and told him and his family to get out immediately.

The militants, including a local man whose name he knew, brought with them a bearded comrade clutching a sniper rifle whom Abu Rami suspects was Russian or Chechen. The foreigner took up position in a rooftop chicken coop.

The Star Festive Promo: Get 35% OFF Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In World

At Damascus book fair, Islamist titles and Kurdish culture echo big shifts
Norwegian police search homes of ex-PM Jagland in Epstein probe
Venezuelan leader Rodriguez says she was invited to US, NBC reports
Ukrainian arms producers receive first wartime export licences, Kyiv says
Appointment of US envoy in Geneva raises hopes for UN engagement
Two US Navy ships collide, no major injuries, US Southern Command says
Cartel drones become flashpoint between US and Mexico
Syria says it has taken control of al-Tanf base vacated by US troops
French diplomat with Epstein ties denies accusations after government alerts prosecutor
Spain and Portugal on high alert as storms cause more damage

Others Also Read