(VOVworld) – Iraqi forces have advanced into western Mosul in an operation to drive out Islamic State (IS) militants, following gaining control of parts of the southern outskirts of Mosul a day earlier.

Iraqi forces advanced into western Mosul on Tuesday to drive out Islamic State millitants. (Photo: AP Photo/Manu Brabo)

Iraqi special forces, army troops, and security forces joined Tuesday’s strategic offensive. Iraq’s national television said Iraqi bombers fired rockets at IS targets, damaging vehicles and killing several militants. By noon, dozens of civilians had fled from IS-controlled areas to seek protection from government forces.