Iraqi Forces Gain Ground Against Islamic State in Mosul's Old City

Following a large-scale aerial bombardment of Mosul’s Old City on May 24, Iraqi Federal Police launched ground operations along Bab al-Tub Street on May 25, capturing several strategic buildings from Islamic State militants.Unconfirmed reports from IS-affiliated Amaq News claim at least four Iraqi soldiers were killed by IS snipers in military operations.In March 2017, Iraqi forces evacuated hundreds of civilians living along Bab al-Tub Street, as fighting with nearby Islamic State militants escalated around the popular Al-Arbea’a Market.Mosul’s Old City and its environs remain the last bastion of IS-held territory inside the city. Iraqi forces have struggled to gain additional territory for several months.