(VOVworld) - The Islamic State is talking to Al Qaeda about a possible alliance as Iraqi troops close in on IS fighters in Mosul, Iraqi Vice President Ayad Allawi said Monday. He confirmed that discussions between Islamic State and al Qaeda leaders have begun but it is unclear how exactly the two groups might work together.

Iraqi forces are struggling to retake Mosul (Source: AFP/VNA)

The Islamic State split from Al Qaeda in 2014. Since then, the two groups have been fighting for influence in fundraising and recruiting under the mantle of a global Jihadist movement.