Iraqi forces enter center of Fallujah

Iraqi State Television has reported that Iraqi forces have recaptured the government headquarters in central Fallujah from ISIS. The Iraqi flag has reportedly been raised over the mayor's compound.

AFP cites Lt. Gen. Abdulwahab al-Saadi, overall commander of the operation, as saying: "The counter-terrorism service and the rapid response forces have retaken the government compound in the center of Fallujah."

Federal Police Chief, Raed Shaker Jawdat, also stated: "The liberation of the government compound, which is the main landmark in the city, symbolizes the restoration of the state's authority."

The offensive to push the ISIS terrorists out of the city was launched by the Iraqi Army,  four weeks ago.

With air support provided by both the US-led anti-ISIS coalition and the Iraqi Air Force,Iraqi troops entered downtown Fallujah at about 6 a.m. local time, following an intense firefight with ISIS militants.

A fight is now underway, for the nearby central hospital.

A significant part of the city remains under the control of Islamic extremists.

Iraqi Army engineers are now clearing the re-taken Government Complex of  explosive devices planted in the area by ISIS.

Fallujah has been the major location used by ISIS fighters to produce handmade explosive devices and car bombs.

Once ISIS is completely expelled from Fallujah, the Government plans to launch a major offensive retake of Iraq's second largest city, Mosul.

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