Four Islamic State members killed during clashes in Hawija

Kirkuk (IraqiNews.com) Four Islamic State militants were killed during clashes that erupted near Hawija district, southwestern Kirkuk, according to a local source.

“Armed clashes occurred on Saturday between IS fighters of Hawija and other militants from Diyala province,” the source said.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the source added that “the clashes occurred after an IS leader from Diyala killed an IS member from Hawija.”

The clashes left four members killed.

East Dijla Operations Command declared last week that operations to be launched soon to drive IS militants out of Hawija.

Dozens of residents from Hawija and the regions in its vicinity escape to Kirkuk province on a daily basis. Despite the risky routes to the freed regions, the civilians prefer death to staying under IS control.

Hawija, located 55 KM west of Kirkuk, has been held by IS since mid-2014.