Iraqi forces capture Nimrud ancient city

Iraqi forces on Sunday took control of Nimrud, the site of an ancient Assyrian city held by Daesh militants two years ago.

After capturing the ancient Iraqi city, government troops raised Iraqi flags above its buildings and inflicted losses of life and equipment on Daesh, Commander of Operation dubbed "We Are Coming, Nineveh" Lt. Gen. Abdul Amir Rasheed Yar Allah said. 

Meanwhile, Iraqi forces shot down a reconnaissance aircraft belonging to Daesh terrorists eastern Mosul, commander Yar Allah added.

Earlier in the day, Iraqi forces retook An Numaniyah city in Nineveh Governorate. 

The ancient town of Nimrud lies about 30km from Mosul city.

Since overrunning it in 2014, Daesh has caused severe damage in Nimrud, founded in the 13th Century BC. 

On October 17, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al Abadi launched a large-scale military operation to liberate Daesh-held Mosul, the second largest city in Iraq.

Source: MENA