The Obama administration praised Iraqi security forces Monday for “progress” in the battle for Ramadi against the Islamic State, but disagreed with Iraq’s claim that it has fully liberated the city.
The White House commended Iraqi forces for “continued progress” and for showing “courage and determination” in the ground battle, supported by more than 630 air strikes by the U.S.-led coalition.
President Obama was briefed on the progress Monday while vacationing in Hawaii.
Secretary of State John F. Kerry said Ramadi “is not yet fully secure, and addtional parts of the city must still be retaken.”
But Mr. Kerry added, “Iraq’s national flag now flies above the provincial government center and enemy forces have suffered a major defeat.”
“These gains attest to the growing confidence and capability of Iraqi forces who are fighting bravely against a ruthless adversary employing suicide bombers, snipers, and improvised explosive devices,” Mr. Kerry said.
The White House said the U.S. “will continue to support our partners fighting against ISIL on the ground until it is defeated,” using an acronym for the Islamic State.
The Iraqi military declared Monday that Ramadi has been “liberated,” with spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Rasul saying Iraq’s forces had achieved an “epic” victory. TV pictures showed troops raising the Iraqi flag over the government complex.
Some reports indicated there were still pockets of resistance in the city.
Ramadi’s recapture marks a major reversal for the extremist group. The Islamic State seized Ramadi in May, in an embarrassing defeat for the Iraqi army.
— This article is based in part on wire-service reports.
• Dave Boyer can be reached at dboyer@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.