Iraqi forces 'retake ancient city from IS'-Report


Iraqi government forces have captured Nimrud, the site of an ancient Assyrian city overrun by Islamic State (IS) group militants two years ago, a military statement says.

The town lies about 30km (20 miles) from the major city of Mosul, which Iraqi government forces are attempting to take from IS.

IS has caused severe damage in Nimrud, founded in the 13th Century BC.

It says shrines and statues are "false idols" that have to be smashed.

An Iraqi military statement said: "Troops from the Ninth Armoured Division liberated Nimrud town completely and raised the Iraqi flag above its buildings after inflicting loss of life and equipment on the so-called Islamic State."

SOURCE: BBC News