March 26th 2014 – Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) defeated four separate ISIL attacks across Iraq March 24. The ISF carried out these successful counterattacks in the areas of Kisik, western Kirkuk, Bayji and Habbaniyah. In Habbaniyah, ISIL unsuccessfully employed two VBIEDs and 12 suicide bombers in an effort to retake the Habbaniyah Bridge, based on initial reports. No ground was gained by ISIL in these attempts.

“The tables are turning,” said Col. Wayne Marotto, CJTF-OIR spokesman. “ISF is gaining ground and their capabilities continue to improve.”

Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve supported the ISF and Peshmerga fighters’ defense through airstrikes, ongoing advise and assist operations, airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, or ISR.

Meanwhile, In Syria, anti-ISIL forces seized several ISIL-controlled villages just south of Kobani.

The CJTF-OIR Coalition will continue supporting efforts on behalf of all Iraqi Security Forces and the Government of Iraq, to attack and defeat ISIL. Iraqi Security Forces continue to make gains throughout Iraq and are postured to retake additional territory from ISIL.