ISIS destroys key Anbar bridge to slow Iraqi forces

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – Islamic State fighters have destroyed Al Boshjal bridge connecting Fallujah city and Saqlawiyah town in order to halt the advance of Iraqi security forces, an official source from Anbar province police told Rudaw. 

After controlling areas near the town of Saqlawiyah, 7km northwest of Fallujah in Anbar province, ISIS destroyed the strategic bridge that was known as a vital supply line for the ISIS militants.
 
“To prevent the escape of the civilians, ISIS has placed many checkpoints on the bridges of Fallujah and Albo-Alwan towns. In Hawija, in southeastern Kirkuk, ISIS organized a military parade under the banner of the Qawqaz Regiment and has pushed the young men from Fallujah to join its ranks,” said the police source.
 
The Anbar provincial council has asked Iraqi military leaders to help the people of Anbar escape because ISIS might use them as human shields.
 
Naem Gaoud, head of Al-Buonmar militia, told Rudaw on Wednesday that the Islamic State had established a special force in nearby areas comprised of foreign fighters.
 
"We have asked the Iraqi government to provide us with heavy weapons to defeat ISIS," said Gaoud.