The Heat: The Battle For Fallujah

The Heat

Iraqi security forces are embroiled in a fierce fight to reclaim the city of Fallujah from ISIL fighters.

Iraqi government forces and Shiite militias are facing heavy resistance from ISIL militants determined to hold onto the strategic city of Fallujah, west of Baghdad.

Tens of thousands of troops, backed by U.S.-led airstrikes, have had some success clearing villages to the north and south of the city, but the offensive has stalled.

Iraqi officials are concerned for the safety of 50,000 civilians who remain trapped in the city.

The United Nations says an estimated 20,000 children are among the families struggling with dwindling water and food supplies.

CCTV’s Susannah George has more from Baghdad.

For more on the fighting against ISIL:

  • Rend Al-Rahim, who served as Iraq’s Representative and Chief of Mission to the United States from 2003 to 2005

For more insight into the fight for Fallujah