WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Iraqi Security Forces, led by its Counter Terrorism Service, are conducting 'shaping' operations in the Tigris Valley in preparation for the invasion of Daesh-occupied Mosul, Garver continued.
"We have seen overall throughout the Tigris River Valley a reduction in Daesh fighting capability," Garver stated.
Last month, the Iraqi military seized control of Qayyarah Airfield West, which sits 60 kilometers from Mosul, and is set to become a critical logistics and supply hub to support Iraqi forces advance on the city.
On July 11, US Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter sent an additional contingent of 560 US soldiers, largely consisting of engineers and support personnel, to reconstruct the heavily damaged Qayyarah runway and facilities.
