During a lull in fighting Islamic State fighters could be seen on the move in their last neighbourhood of Baghouz village near the Iraqi border where they are sheltering among civilians. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) said the presence of civilians among the militants was compelling their fighters to proceed cautiously. But Islamic State still has thousands of fighters, who, now dispersed, are expected to turn to guerrilla-style attacks. Consequently, US military and intelligence officials have warned of the risk of a resurgence of Islamic State. The US is hoping allies will contribute forces to help stabilise areas freed from Islamic State.

Source: The Irish Times February 18, 2019 19:30 UTC