Iraq

Armed groups south, west, and north of Baghdad are becoming increasingly active. ISIS may be on the offensive in Ramadi, Jurf al-Sakhar, Samarra, and northern Diyala.

ISIS may now possess 88 pounds of unenriched uranium that had been stored at Mosul University, elevating the terrorist threat that ISIS poses. 

ISIS has expanded its posture in Diyala, an area in which it has clashed for territory. Iraqi Shi’a militias have, however, held a line against ISIS advances at Khalis.

ISIS seized the Sudur mini-dam which is located about 3 miles east of Khalis. ISIS took over the mini-dam after clashes with ISF units stationed in its vicinity and the ISF is now attempting to retake the dam.

ISIS continues to threaten tribes as it attempts to enforce the pledge of allegiance to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of ISIS and the self-proclaimed Caliph of the Islamic State.

ISIS took control of the village of Zowiya after it targeted the area with mortars. There are no reports of clashes in Mishag today.

ISIS attacked the northwest Baghdad neighborhood of Kadhmiya for the second time in a week, this time employing an SVBIED. This indicates that ISIS can still attack heavily protected areas in Baghdad with vehicles.

Heavy clashes took place between ISIS and tribal elements from the villages of Zowiya and Mishak located in northern Salah ad-Din Province when ISIS attempted to enter the villages.

ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi delivered a public sermon in his proclaimed role as Caliph Ibrahim, the leader of the Islamic State, presenting a major challenge to al-Qaeda senior leader Ayman al-Zawahiri. The public appearance of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in Mosul and the destruction of shrines and mosques in Mosul and Tal Afar indicate that ISIS control in northern Iraq is uncontested.

ISIS clashed with security forces in Baiji, Tikrit, and Samarra. IA Aviation utilized SU-25 jets to bomb ISIS positions in Hawijah.