Iraqi forces aim to encircle ISIS

(ANSA) - Rome, March 4 - 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.