US-led coalition congratulates Iraq for Hawija mission

By Safvan Allahverdi

WASHINGTON (AA) - The U.S.-led anti-Daesh coalition on Thursday congratulated Iraq for its victory against the militant group in Hawija, one of the fighters’ two remaining strongholds in the country.

"Our Iraqi partners fought bravely and professionally against a brutal and determined enemy, safeguarding innocent civilians throughout the entire campaign," Lt. Gen. Paul E. Funk II, Commanding General of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, said in a statement.

"Thanks to their efforts, Hawija will return to local governance and security."

More than 1,000 Daesh fighters surrendered, according to a statement from the coalition that congratulated the Iraqi armed forces on a “swift and decisive” win.

“Today's victory demonstrates we are stronger together, and this Coalition remains committed to supporting our partners in the tough fight ahead as we continue our mission to defeat ISIS," Funk added, referring to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, another name for Daesh.

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi announced the liberation of Hawija, that was used as a platform by Daesh to threaten the oil-rich northern city Kirkuk .

Abadi congratulated Iraq and the world for the victory that was “achieved with the heroic acts of Iraqis,” in a statement from his office.

The government, Iraq Security Forces and support of the global coalition have liberated more than 4 million Iraqis and reclaimed more than 41,500 square kilometers (16,023 square miles) of land once held by Daesh.