Iraqi army soldiers and Shia
militiamen, led partly by an Iranian general, are trying to
encircle Islamic State fighters in Tikrit, on the third day of a
major operation to retake Saddam Hussein's birthplace which was
overrun in June.
State-run al-Iraqiya TV said government forces were
"advancing" but progress has been slowed by roadside bombs.
Security sources said they had captured villages and oil
fields east of the city, and blocked a key ISIS supply line to
neighbouring Diyala province.
The offensive is being overseen at least in part by an
Iranian general.
On Tuesday, the top US general said Iran's role in Tikrit
could be positive, as long as it did not fuel sectarian
tensions.
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