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After weeks of heavy clashes and destructive air strikes in Manbij, the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are taking upper hand in the battle against ISIS terrorist group.
The SDF (the Kurdish YPG and Arab militias) has almost sezied the southwestern part of city and now is advancing towards the city center.
Meanwhile, the gorups of ISIS fighters remain besieged at areas near Tetbekat prison and al Basel hospital. If they are taken, the SDF will be able to launch a full-scale advance on the city center.
In the northwestern part of Manbij, Kurdish units surrounded Al Asqa Mosque that is located west of the Manbij City Hall.
Meanwhile, the US-led coalition airpower airstrikes have been isolating ISIS units in Manbij, destroying bridges and transport infrastructure of the city.
If the city center is seized by Kurds, significant ISIS defenses will remain in the eastern part of city. However, ISIS has already lost any initiative in the battle for Manbij.
It’s important to note that the recent events at the Turkish Incirlik airbase (it was temporarly closed and its commander was detained) has not prevented the US from providing a significant air support for advancing SDF units.
The victory is very slow.
The SDF should get more support from the West. They are brave Anti ISIS fighters