US-backed Syrian launch offensive to capture IS-held Raqqa

A US-backed Syrian force says it has begun an offensive to capture the northern city of Raqqa, the de facto capital of the Islamic State group, after months of clearing operations.

Talal Sillo, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, tells reporters that operations have begun in coordination with the US-led coalition.

“We declare today the beginning of the great battle to liberate the city of Raqqa, the alleged capital of terrorism and terrorists,” Sillo tells a news conference held in northern Syria. “Morale is high and military readiness to implement the military plan is complete, in coordination with the US-led coalition.”

Raqqa was among the first cities captured by IS, in January 2014, and has been the home of some of the group’s most prominent leaders, including those who planned the November 2015 Paris attacks and other international assaults. The battle for the city is expected to be long and bloody, and could mark a major turning point in the war against the extremists.

— AP