Iraqi troops clear bombs in Ramadi after driving out IS

BAGHDAD, Jan 1: Iraqi troops are removing bombs and debris from the city center of Ramadi days after driving out Islamic State militants, as rainy weather slows further combat operations.

Anbar Provincial Council head Sabah Karhout told The Associated Press on Thursday that sporadic clashes and airstrikes were taking place in areas that are still under IS control. He says a major offensive to clear the remainder of the provincial capital is on hold due to the bad weather.He says families are still trapped in the IS-held areas of the city, where they are being used as human shields.

On Monday, Iraqi forces backed by U.S.-led airstrikes drove IS out of the city center. IS captured Ramadi in May despite months of U.S.-led airstrikes, dealing a major blow to Iraqi forces.

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