US forces increase in Iraq for upcoming operation

Islamic State's last major city in Iraq is under threat as American forces increase ahead of planned operation.

By JPOST.COM STAFF
Updated: SEPTEMBER 17, 2016 19:57
Iraqi soldiers fire a rocket toward Islamic State militants on the outskirt of the Makhmour south of Mosul, Iraq, March 25, 2016 (photo credit: REUTERS)
Iraqi soldiers fire a rocket toward Islamic State militants on the outskirt of the Makhmour south of Mosul, Iraq, March 25, 2016
(photo credit: REUTERS)
American forces have been arriving at an air base in Mosul, Iraq to support the Iraqi army's attempt to liberate the city from ISIS, the Daily Mail reported Saturday
The air base, Qayyarah, was recaptured from ISIS in July with the help of US airstrikes.
US forces will provide logistics and support, but this also brings American personnel close to the front line with ISIS.
On Thursday, Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook told reporters that "the secretary of defense has made clear that our forces in Iraq are in harm's way. Everyone who is serving there is in a dangerous situation.", according to the Daily Mail.
The air base is set to be rebuilt to allow US and coalition forces operation capabilities.
In early September, the US deployed another 400 troops to Iraq.
ISIS captured the city in 2014 and is considered the last major stronghold for ISIS in Iraq.
"When the Iraqi Security Force is ready to move on in their operations to get after Mosul, we'll be prepared to support that and the airfield will be ready," Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Harrigian said on Tuesday at the Pentagon.
Iraqi forces have started alerting locals in the area with leaflets warning of the upcoming offensive in an effort to save citizens.