Iraqi forces push towards Mosul mosque where IS declared caliphateJune 21, 2017 - 12:46 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - U.S.-backed Iraqi forces said they began a push on Wednesday, June 21 toward the mosque of Mosul, where Islamic State declared a self-styled caliphate three years ago, Reuters says. The military said the forces had encircled the jihadist group's stronghold in the Old City of Mosul, where the mosque is located, on Tuesday. The battle for the Old City is becoming the deadliest in the eight-month old offensive to capture Mosul, Islamic State's de facto capital in Iraq. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | “By Your Side”: IDBank's new support program for displaced Artsakh citizens IDBank is launching a long-term social support program for forcibly displaced Artsakh residents. The Power of One Dram to benefit Road of Life charity The companies inform that the May beneficiary of The Power of One Dram is the “Road of Life” charitable organization. Ucom General Director gives lecture at French University in Armenia The General Director of Ucom Ralph Yirikian delivered a lecture at the French University of Armenia. Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty. |