Shi'ite irregulars will help storm a smaller city in northern Iraq while government troops launch their upcoming offensive against Islamic State's biggest stronghold Mosul, raising fears among Iraqi officials and aid workers of sectarian retribution. The decision to steer the Popular Mobilisation Forces away from Mosul to Hawija 100 km (60 miles) away is intended to ease sectarian animosity during the fight for Mosul, expected to be the biggest battle in Iraq since the U.S.-led invasion of 2003. Residents who have managed to flee say the fighters have imposed draconian rule there, growing increasingly violent as the expected battle looms. Aid workers worry that fear of retaliation by Shi'ite fighters could cause more panic and worsen the situation. However, Hussaini, the PMF spokesman, said coalition forces were expected to provide air support and intelligence during the assault on Hawija.

Source: India Today October 17, 2016 06:33 UTC