File image.
On February 24, ISIS cells ambushed two vehicles of the Iraqi military on a key highway near the western town of Rutba, which is located a few kilometers away from the Iraq’s border with Syria and Joran.
The first vehicle was targeted near the 20 Kilometer point, while the second came under attack a few hours later as it was passing near the 40 Kilometer point.
The Amaq news agency, which shared photos from the ambush, claimed that a number of Iraqi service members were killed or wounded.
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ISIS maintains a strong presence in the al-Anbar desert which surrounds Rutba. The vast desert is known to be the heartland of the terrorist group. The Iraqi military and pro-government tribal forces are present there. However, only in urban centers, on strategic roads and along the border line with Syria and Jordan.
Iraqi government forces have been pursuing ISIS cells in the western region with much success. However, the terrorist group’s presence in the region will not likely end soon.
