Security forces repel fresh wave of IS onslaught in Iraq's Anbar

Iraqi security forces on Thursday repelled a wave of Islamic State (IS) attacks north of Ramadi, the capital city of the western province of Anbar, a provincial security source said.

At least 22 IS militants were killed and 13 suicide car bombs were destroyed before they reached the headquarters of the 39th and 40th brigades in Nadhum al-Tharthar area, north of Ramadi, some 110 km west of the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

Iraqi and U.S.-led coalition aircraft provided air cover for government troops and allied Sunni fighters against IS militants. It was not clear if anyone from the government side were killed or wounded in the heavy clashes.

The onslaught Thursday was the latest in a series of IS attacks on positions of security forces and allied Sunni tribal fighters, who captured most of Ramadi from the extremist group on Dec. 28.

The Iraqi national flag was raised on the government complex in downtown Ramadi, but sporadic battles continued with IS militants in the eastern part of the city and in the open areas north of it.

Government troops and allied militias have been fighting for months retake control of key cities and towns in Anbar, Iraq's largest province, from IS militants, who previously seized most of Anbar and tried to advance toward Baghdad. Endit