31 March 2015

In Ramadi, security forces have imposed a curfew throughout the city, following the broad offensive launched by ISIL gunmen in northeastern Ramadi. The security forces there have withdrawn to the city center following a car-bomb attack and a number of suicide bombers who carried out their missions at positions held by the security forces. The fierce clashes that erupted were what triggered the withdrawal.

Meanwhile, coalition warplanes have attacked an ISIL column advancing toward the westernmost outskirts of Ramadi that link the city with Hit township. The column was on its way to reinforcing the ISIL forces in northeastern Ramadi. Anbar Operations sources are reporting that dozens of the gunmen in the 20-vehicle column were 'annihilated'.

Meanwhile security forces have called on the Rapid Deployment forces and elements of the 'Golden Division' to provide support in the operations to re-take the area. There are also reports that ISIL is planning to use large numbers of car-bombs to be used in their assault on central Ramadi that has been practically abandoned by residents fearing for their lives and safety.

Clashes are also continuing to the east, in the areas between Ramadi and the 'Japanese Bridge', even though security forces are reported to be in control of most parts of the area.

In Garma, coalition warplanes and Iraqi air support have carried out numerous strikes on the areas between the center of the town and its southwestern reaches. Sources are reporting that at least 25 ISIL gunmen have been killed by the strikes.

In Fallujah, a General Hospital source has reported that 3 residents have been killed and at least 11 wounded by the random bombardment exchanges between security forces surrounding the city and the ISIL gunmen holding the city.