Britain is at war: RAF Tornados are in the air over Iraq with orders to strike ISIS - and SAS are on the ground to guide in the bombs

[ScottL]

[h=1]US-led aircraft flying over IS-held Tikrit[/h](Or: US Provides Air Support For Iranian Militias In Iraq, amending the headline - SL)

TIKRIT, Iraq — The U.S.-led coalition battling the Islamic State group has begun surveillance flights over the northern Iraqi town of Tikrit, a senior coalition official said Tuesday, marking the first time the alliance has taken part in a major offensive there that is being spearheaded by Iranian-backed Shiite militias.

The official said the flights and intelligence sharing began Saturday and were requested by the Iraqi government. He declined to comment on whether the coalition was carrying out airstrikes, saying he cannot discuss current or future operations. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to journalists.

Up to now the offensive to take back Tikrit, Saddam Hussein’s hometown, has largely has been waged by Iraqi troops and Shiite militias advised by Gen. Qassem Soleimani, commander of the elite Quds Force of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard. The coalition official declined to discuss whether U.S. forces were directly communicating with Iranians on the ground there.

Both the U.S. and Iran view the Islamic State group as a major threat but insist they are not coordinating their actions. The U.S. had previously said it was not taking part in the Tikrit offensive because it had received no request to do so from Baghdad.

The U.S.-led air campaign, launched in August, has allowed Iraqi forces to halt the IS group’s advance and claw back some of the territory it seized last summer.

But the growing Iranian presence on the ground has complicated the mission, with Washington refusing to work directly with a country it views as a regional menace. The prominent role of the Shiite militias in the fight to retake Tikrit and other parts of Iraq’s Sunni heartland has meanwhile raised concerns that the offensive could deepen the country’s sectarian divide and drive Sunnis into the arms of the Islamic State group.

A senior Iraqi military official said the coalition is not providing airstrikes in support of the Tikrit operation, but launched airstrikes on the nearby oil refinery town of Beiji on Tuesday. He added that Soleimani had just left Tikrit after providing front-line assistance and advising since the start of the operation.

“He will come back if we need him to,” said the Iraqi official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he’s not authorized to brief journalists.

Iran has provided military advisers and weapons to Iraqi troops and Shiite militias, and last year it carried out airstrikes near its border in Iraq’s Diyala province.

The Sunni city of Tikrit lies about 130 kilometers (80 miles) north of Baghdad. It is one of the largest cities held by the Islamic State group and lies on the road connecting Baghdad to militant-held Mosul, the country’s second-largest city.

U.S. military officials have that said a coordinated mission to retake Mosul likely will begin in April or May and involve up to 25,000 Iraqi troops. But the Americans have cautioned that if the Iraqis are not ready, the offensive could be delayed. The U.S. and other coalition members have been providing weapons and training to Iraqi and Kurdish forces in the north in an effort to prepare them for the battle ahead.

The Tikrit operation is the largest to date and requires careful air and ground coordination in order to minimize civilian casualties and damage to the city’s infrastructure.

Iraqi security forces and allied militias surrounded Tikrit and entered some northern and southern neighborhoods earlier this month. But the offensive has since been hindered by roadside bombs and snipers, and Iraqi officials say they will not rush a final assault.

Pentagon spokesman Col. Steve Warren said Tuesday that the Iraqi ground operation against the Islamic State group has “stalled” and that the Tikrit operation “has not moved forward recently.”

“They certainly have not given up,” he added. “I think the difference is, after you’ve been static for about a week you’re stalled.”

Iraqi forces have made progress in driving the Islamic State group out of rural areas and small villages, but populated areas like Tikrit could prove a greater challenge.

“Urban combat is exceedingly difficult combat, and the Iraqis are seeing that,” Warren said.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Coalition Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 24, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Fighter and remotely piloted aircraft conducted six airstrikes near Kobani, which struck four ISIL tactical units and destroyed five ISIL fighting positions, an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL checkpoint.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Fighter and attack aircraft conducted eight airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Beiji, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two ISIL shipping containers.
-- Near Fallujah, an airstrike struck an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Mosul, two airstrikes destroyed two ISIL excavators.
-- Near Sinjar, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL building.
-- Near Tal Afar, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit, an ISIL roadside bomb and bomb storage facility, and destroyed an ISIL vehicle.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Continue in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 25, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Fighter aircraft conducted five airstrikes near Kobani, which struck three ISIL tactical units, an ISIL vehicle and destroyed 10 ISIL fighting positions and two ISIL vehicles.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Fighter, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 14 airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Beiji, five airstrikes struck four ISIL tactical units and destroyed an ISIL fighting position and an ISIL armored vehicle.
-- Near Fallujah, five airstrikes struck four ISIL tactical units, an ISIL vehicle and destroyed two ISIL excavators and an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Mosul, two airstrikes struck an ISIL modular oil refinery, an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two ISIL machine guns and an ISIL building.
-- Near Tal Afar, two airstrikes struck an ISIL large tactical unit, an ISIL tactical unit, two ISIL machine guns and destroyed an ISIL mortar system and an ISIL building.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Coalition Forces Conduct 17 Airstrikes in Tikrit[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 26, 2015 – Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve operations in support of Iraqi security forces in Tikrit, Iraq, began last night after a request from the Iraqi government of Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials said.
Coalition fighter, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 17 airstrikes against Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists, officials said, noting that the Iraqi Defense Ministry approved the strikes.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The airstrikes struck an ISIL building, two ISIL bridges, three ISIL checkpoints, two ISIL staging areas, two ISIL berms, an ISIL roadblock and an ISIL-controlled command and control facility, officials said.
“The ongoing Iraqi and coalition airstrikes are setting the conditions for offensive action to be conducted by Iraqi forces currently surrounding Tikrit,” said Army Lt. Gen. James L. Terry, who commands the combined joint task force. “Iraqi security forces supported by the coalition will continue to gain territory from [ISIL].”
Conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the airstrikes against ISIL targets in Iraq further limits the terrorist group’s ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Coalition Airstrikes Continue in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 26, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Fighter, attack and bomber aircraft conducted five airstrikes in Syria:
-- Near Ar Raqqah, an airstrike struck an ISIL military garrison.
-- Near Kobani, four airstrikes struck two ISIL tactical units, five ISIL fighting positions and destroyed two ISIL fighting positions.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Fighter, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 24 airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Bayji, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit.
-- Near Fallujah, three airstrikes struck three ISIL tactical units and two ISIL fighting positions.
-- Near Mosul, two airstrikes struck an ISIL checkpoint and an ISIL staging area.
-- Near Tal Afar, an airstrike struck an ISIL fighting position.
-- Near Tikrit, 17 airstrikes struck multiple ISIL buildings, two ISIL bridges, three ISIL checkpoints, two ISIL staging areas, two ISIL berms, an ISIL roadblock and an ISIL command and control facility.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]DoD News, Defense Media Activity WASHINGTON, March 27, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today. Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports. Airstrikes in Syria Attack, fighter and bomber aircraft conducted six airstrikes near Kobani, which struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed five ISIL fighting positions, three ISIL vehicles, two ISIL anti-aircraft artillery weapons and an ISIL excavator. Airstrikes in Iraq Attack, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 10 airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense: -- Near Beiji, two airstrikes struck two ISIL tactical units and destroyed two ISIL vehicles and an ISIL anti-aircraft artillery weapon. -- Near Fallujah, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL anti-aircraft artillery weapon. -- Near Mosul, two airstrikes struck an ISIL staging area and destroyed an ISIL fighting position and an ISIL building. -- Near Sinjar, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed five ISIL buildings, an anti-aircraft artillery weapon and an ISIL mortar position. -- Near Tal Afar, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL vehicle. -- Near Tikrit, three airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two ISIL vehicles and an ISIL vehicle bomb. Part of Operation Inherent Resolve The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 28, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Attack, fighter and bomber aircraft conducted four airstrikes near Kobani, which struck two ISIL tactical units, destroyed two anti-aircraft artillery machine guns, three ISIL vehicles, one excavator, and damaged one ISIL fighting position.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Attack, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 18 airstrikes against ISIL terrorists in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Tikrit, eight airstrikes struck two large ISIL units and one ISIL tactical unit, destroyed one ISIL vehicle, one ISIL vehicle-borne explosive device, and destroyed 11 fighting positions and damaged one fighting position.
-- Near Fallujah, three airstrikes struck one ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two anti-aircraft artillery guns and an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Mosul, three airstrikes destroyed two IED construction/facilitation buildings, one other building, an armored vehicle, and one fighting position.
-- Near Tal Afar, two airstrikes destroyed one machine gun, one building and one excavator.
-- Near Ar Rutbah, one airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit; and
-- Near Bayji, one airstrike struck one ISIL tactical unit.
All aircraft returned to base safely.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations.
Coalition nations which have conducted airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations which have conducted airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 29, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Fighter aircraft conducted an airstrike near Kobani, Syria, which struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL vehicle.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Attack, fighter, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 14 airstrikes against ISIL terrorists in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Bayji, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL fighting position.
-- Near Fallujah, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL excavator.
-- Near Mosul, three airstrikes struck two ISIL tactical units and destroyed two ISIL fighting positions, two ISIL vehicles, two ISIL heavy machine guns and an ISIL building.
-- Near Tal Afar, three airstrikes struck an ISIL large tactical unit, an ISIL storage facility, an ISIL fighting position and destroyed an ISIL building and an ISIL heavy machine gun; and
-- Near Tikrit, six airstrikes struck six ISIL tactical units and destroyed an ISIL fighting position and an ISIL anti-aircraft artillery weapon.
All aircraft returned to base safely.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Operation Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Hit ISIL Targets in Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 30, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports and that no airstrikes took place in Syria during that period.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Fighter, attack and bomber aircraft conducted seven airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Mosul, two airstrikes struck multiple ISIL fighting positions.
-- Near Sinjar, an airstrike struck an ISIL large tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL rocket launcher and an ISIL building.
-- Near Tal Afar, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL building.
-- Near Tikrit, three airstrikes struck multiple ISIL buildings and destroyed two ISIL armored vehicles.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Coalition Airstrikes Continue in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 31, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
“The strategy has not changed,” said Col. Wayne Marotto, task force public affairs officer. “The focus remains to drive ISIL out of Iraq. We have struck at ISIL’s command and control, supply lines, fighters and leaders, and military and economic infrastructure and resources. We have debilitated ISIL’s oil producing, processing and transportation infrastructure. We are seeing successes in this fight. It will take time, but we will succeed in our mission.”
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Bomber aircraft conducted one airstrike in Syria:
-- Near Kobani, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL fighting position.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Attack, fighter and bomber aircraft conducted seven airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Bayji, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed three ISIL fighting positions.
-- Near Mosul, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit, one ISIL checkpoint and destroyed 31 ISIL vehicles and two ISIL anti-aircraft artillery weapons.
-- Near Ramadi, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two ISIL buildings.
-- Near Sinjar, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit, destroyed an ISIL building and suppressed ISIL movement.
-- Near Tikrit, an airstrike struck multiple ISIL buildings.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, April 1, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Fighter, attack and bomber aircraft conducted seven airstrikes in Syria:
-- Near Hasakah, four airstrikes struck four ISIL tactical units and destroyed four ISIL fighting positions.
-- Near Kobani, three airstrikes struck three ISIL tactical units, three ISIL vehicles and destroyed three ISIL fighting positions.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Attack, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft conducted seven airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Hit in Anbar province, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Kirkuk, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two ISIL buildings and two ISIL heavy machine guns.
-- Near Mosul, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL artillery piece.
-- Near Ramadi, two airstrikes struck an ISIL large tactical unit and an ISIL tactical unit.
-- Near Tal Afar, two airstrikes struck an ISIL fighting position and an ISIL tent shelter.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Continue in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release SOUTHWEST ASIA, April 2, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today. Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports. Airstrikes in Syria Fighter and bomber aircraft conducted three airstrikes near Kobani in Syria, striking an ISIL large tactical unit and an ISIL tactical unit and destroying three ISIL fighting positions. Airstrikes in Iraq Attack and fighter aircraft conducted four airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense: -- Near Beiji, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL building. -- Near Fallujah, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL mortar tube. -- Near Sinjar, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL building. -- Near Ramadi, an airstrike struck an ISIL large tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL vehicle. Part of Operation Inherent Resolve The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[ScottL]

April 2, 2015
British Home Secretary to Islamic Extremists: “The Game is Up”

By Soren Kern, GATESTONE INSTITUTE

British Home Secretary Theresa May has unveiled a series of new proposals aimed at combating Islamic extremism “in all its forms.”

The plan is part of the Tory election manifesto, a declaration of policies and programs to be implemented if Prime Minister David Cameron’s Conservative Party stays in power after the general election on May 7.

The home secretary has pledged that a future Tory government would — among other measures — ban Islamic hate preachers, shut down extremist mosques and review whether Sharia courts in England and Wales are compatible with British values.

May has also promised to crack down on Islamic extremism in British prisons, to monitor how police are responding to so-called honor crimes, female genital mutilation and forced marriage, and to change the citizenship law to ensure that successful applicants respect British values.

Reaction to May’s proposals has been mixed. While many are pleased with her expressed determination to confront Islamic extremism, others believe that many elements of the plan will be difficult, if not impossible, to implement, especially if the Conservatives enter into another coalition government with the Liberal Democrats, who are opposed to any attempts to limit free speech.

May announced the crackdown during a hard-hitting speech in London on March 23, when she defined extremism as “the vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and the mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.”

Speaking with a clarity not seen in most public discourse about Islam today, May singled out Islamic extremism as posing the foremost threat to contemporary Britain. She said:

“There is increasing evidence that a small but significant number of people living in Britain — almost all of whom are British citizens — reject our values. We have seen the Trojan Horse plot to take over state schools in Birmingham. Some concerns about religious supplementary schools. Widespread allegations of corruption, cronyism, extremism, homophobia and anti-Semitism in Tower Hamlets. Hate speakers invited to speak at British colleges and universities. Segregation by gender allowed at universities and even endorsed by Universities UK [a lobbying group representing British universities]. Charities and the generosity of the giving public abused by extremists. Examples of Sharia law being used to discriminate against women. Thousands of ‘honor’ crimes committed every year. And hundreds of British citizens who have travelled to fight in Syria and Iraq.

“It’s clear from these examples that extremism can take many forms. It can be ideological, or it can be driven by social and cultural norms that are contrary to British values and quite simply unacceptable. We have been clear all along that the Government’s counter-extremism strategy must seek to defeat extremism in all its forms, but it’s obvious from the evidence that the most serious and widespread form of extremism we need to confront is Islamist extremism.

“Islamist extremists believe in a clash of civilizations. They promote a fundamental incompatibility between Islamic and Western values, an inevitable divide between ‘them and us.’ They demand a caliphate, or a new Islamic state, governed by a harsh interpretation of Sharia law. They utterly reject British and Western values, including democracy, the rule of law, and equality between citizens, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, religion or sexuality. They believe that it’s impossible to be a good Muslim and a good British citizen. And they dismiss anybody who disagrees with them — including other Muslims — as ‘kafirs,’ or non-believers.

“Extremism is not something that can just be ignored. It cannot be wished away. It must be tackled head on. Because where extremism takes root the consequences are clear. Women’s rights are eroded. There is discrimination on the basis of race and sexuality. There is no longer equal access to the labor market, to the law, or to wider society. Communities become segregated and cut off from one another. Intolerance, hatred and bigotry become normalized. Trust is replaced by fear, reciprocity by envy, and solidarity by division.

“But tackling extremism is also important because of its link to terrorism. Not all extremism leads to violence and not all extremists are violent, but there is without doubt a thread that binds the kind of extremism that promotes hatred and a sense of superiority over others to the actions of those who want to impose their beliefs on us through violence.

“I know there are some people who disagree with me. They say what I describe as Islamist extremism is simply social conservatism. But if anybody else discriminated against women, denounced people on the basis of their religious beliefs, rejected the democratic process, attacked people on the basis of their sexuality, or gave a nod and a wink in favor of violence and terrorism, we wouldn’t hesitate to challenge them or — if the law was broken — call for their prosecution and punishment.

May ended her speech with a warning to Islamic extremists: “The game is up. We will no longer tolerate your behavior. We will expose your hateful beliefs for what they are. Where you seek to spread hate, we will disrupt you. Where you break the law, we will prosecute you. Where you seek to divide us, we will stand united. And together, we will defeat you.”

Some elements of May’s counter-extremism plan were previously outlined by her during aspeech to the Conservative Party Conference in September 2014. May had planned on publishing the official counter-extremism strategy before the dissolution of Parliament on March 30, but was forced to water down several key proposals due to opposition from senior members of her own party.

UK Home Secretary Theresa May, in a September 2014 speech, announced new “Extremism Disruption Orders” that will ban any person the government labels an “extremist” from appearing on radio or TV, protesting in public or even posting messages on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube, without permission from the government.

According to the Financial Times, Universities Minister Greg Clark was opposed to a proposal to order universities to ban extremist speakers, while Justice Secretary Chris Grayling urged caution on moves to control imams who were already in jail. Communities Secretary Eric Pickles was opposed to vetting faith leaders, while Education Secretary Nicky Morgan was critical of a tougher anti-extremism enforcement role proposed for Ofsted, the official schools watchdog.

Some observers say May’s plan may suffer the same fate as a similar 12-point plan outlined by former Prime Minister Tony Blair in August 2005, a month after four British Islamists carried out bombings in London that killed 52 people and injured 700 more.

At the time, Blair vowed to show that the “rules of the game are changing” for Islamic terrorists. But most of Blair’s plan was never implemented, due to infighting within the Labour government and concerns that some proposals were in breach of human rights laws.

Haras Rafiq, the managing director of the Quilliam Foundation, a counter-extremism think tank, praised May’s speech but said there was too much talk and not enough action. In an interview with Newsweek magazine, he said:

“For the lifetime of this coalition government we have had no published strategy on tackling the ideas and ideology behind non-violent extremism. We are still having the same conversations. We are still talking about Sharia law, still talking about learning more, still talking about tackling non-violent extremism, why aren’t we doing it?”

Rafiq added:

“Banning non-violent extremists in a liberal secular democracy does not work. We can say over the last 10 years the policy does not work. Take the policy of Anjem Choudary and Al-Muhajiroun. Once they were banned initially, they just kept popping up under different names.”

The Labour Party’s shadow home secretary, Yvette Cooper, said there was a “massive gap between rhetoric and reality.” She said that although the principles behind May’s proposals were “the right ones,” she questioned the absence of “policies to back those principles up.”

Some Muslim groups said May’s proposals amounted to “Islamophobia.” The chairman of the Islamic Human Rights Commission, Massoud Shadjareh, said: “Nobody will be fooled by the Home Secretary’s claims that these measures are designed to tackle extremism. They are a shameless expression of a hate and bigotry that is increasingly becoming normalized in Britain.”

Manzoor Moghal, the chairman of the Muslim Forum, a think tank, told the BBC that May’s proposals would infringe on freedom of speech. “We might be sleep walking into what would be like a police state,” he said. Moghal also said that Sharia courts “do not contradict British laws” and were “subservient to British laws all the time.”

The debate over how deal with Islamic extremism has intensified since it emerged that more than 500 British jihadists are fighting with the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. Beyond security, however, the issue also has an important political dimension.

This year’s general election is one of the closest in decades, with polls showing the Conservatives running neck-and-neck with the Labour Party. This is partly due to the rise of the anti-immigration UK Independence Party (UKIP), which is now the third-biggest party in Britain, and twice as popular as the Liberal Democrats.

A recent study found that the Conservatives could lose nearly two million voters to UKIP on May 7. UKIP has long called for taking a harder line against Islamic extremists in Britain, a concern apparently shared by a growing number of British voters.
=========================================================================
Soeren Kern is a Senior Fellow at the New York-based Gatestone Institute. He is also Senior Fellow for European Politics at the Madrid-based Grupo de Estudios Estratégicos / Strategic Studies Group.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]U.S., Coalition Forces Continue Airstrikes Against ISIL[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, April 3, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Attack and bomber aircraft conducted six airstrikes in Syria:
-- Near Hasakah, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed four ISIL fighting positions and an ISIL excavator.
-- Near Kobani, four airstrikes struck three ISIL tactical units and destroyed seven ISIL fighting positions and an ISIL vehicle.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Fighter and remotely piloted aircraft conducted six airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Beiji, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL armored vehicle and an ISIL fighting position.
-- Near Rawah, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL excavator.
-- Near Sinjar, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL heavy machine gun and an ISIL building.
-- Near Tal Afar, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two ISIL excavators and an ISIL fighting position.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, April 4, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Attack and bomber aircraft conducted six airstrikes in Syria:
-- Near Kobani, five airstrikes struck three ISIL tactical units and destroyed nine ISIL fighting positions, an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL building.
-- Near Hasakah, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed three ISIL fighting positions.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Fighter and remotely piloted aircraft conducted nine airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Beiji, two airstrikes struck two ISIL tactical units and destroyed an ISIL machine gun and an ISIL fighting position.
-- Near Tal Afar, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL fighting position.
-- Near Huwayjah, an airstrike had no effect.
-- Near Asad, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit.
-- Near Sinjar, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two ISIL machine guns and an ISIL rifle.
-- Near Mosul, an airstrike struck a large ISIL unit and an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed five ISIL fighting positions, two ISIL machine guns, an ISIL bulldozer, an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL rifle.
-- Near Fallujah, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit.
-- Near Sinjar, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two ISIL fighting positions and an ISIL building.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[Coldweather]

This not be good for the people!

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Operation Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Continue in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, April 5, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Attack and remotely piloted aircraft conducted three airstrikes in Syria:
-- Near Hasakah, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed five fighting positions and an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Raqqah, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL armored personnel carrier.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Attack, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 12 airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Qaim, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Beiji, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Fallujah, two airstrikes struck 10 improvised explosive device facilities.
-- Near Mosul, five airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and an ISIL IED production facility and destroyed two ISIL fighting positions and an ISIL vehicle.
--Near Ramadi, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL heavy machine gun and an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Sinjar, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL fighting position, an ISIL heavy machine gun and an ISIL building.
-- Near Tal Afar, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL heavy machine gun and an ISIL fighting position.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]DoD News, Defense Media Activity WASHINGTON, April 6, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today. Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports. Airstrikes in Syria Attack, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft conducted five airstrikes in Syria: -- Near Hasakah, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed eight fighting positions, an ISIL tunnel system and an ISIL vehicle. -- Near Raqqah, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL vehicle. -- Near Kobani, two airstrikes struck two ISIL tactical units and destroyed two ISIL buildings. Airstrikes in Iraq Fighter and remotely piloted aircraft conducted eight airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense: -- Near Beiji, two airstrikes struck an ISIL large tactical unit, an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed six ISIL fighting positions and an ISIL heavy machine gun. -- Near Mosul, three airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two ISIL fighting positions. -- Near Ramadi, three airstrikes struck three ISIL tactical units and destroyed three ISIL mortar positions and an ISIL sniper position. Part of Operation Inherent Resolve The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Coalition Airstrikes Continue in Syria, Iraq[/h]DoD News, Defense Media Activity
SOUTHWEST ASIA, April 7, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Bomber and remotely-piloted aircraft conducted three airstrikes in Syria:
-- Near Aleppo, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit.
-- Near Kobani, two airstrikes destroyed six ISIL fighting positions.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Attack, fighter, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 12 airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Rutbah, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit.
-- Near Bayji, two airstrikes struck an ISIL vehicle and destroyed an ISIL excavator.
-- Near Fallujah, three airstrikes struck two ISIL tactical units, destroyed an ISIL excavator, an ISIL mortar tube, an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL-created dam.
-- Near Hit in Anbar Province, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Mosul, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed three ISIL heavy machine guns, three ISIL buildings, an ISIL artillery piece and an ISIL mortar position.
-- Near Tal Afar, three airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed four ISIL excavators.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, April 8, 2015 – U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Airstrikes in Syria
Bomber and attack aircraft conducted two airstrikes in Syria:
-- Near Hasakah, an airstrike struck four ISIL fighting positions.
-- Near Kobani, an airstrike destroyed two ISIL fighting positions.
Airstrikes in Iraq
Fighter and remotely piloted aircraft conducted four airstrikes in Iraq, approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense:
-- Near Beiji, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL fighting position.
-- Near Hit in Anbar province, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit.
-- Near Kirkuk, an airstrike struck an ISIL tactical unit.
-- Near Tal Afar, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL mortar system.
All aircraft returned to base safely.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.