(CNN) US-backed forces in Syria have launched an offensive to seize the city of Raqqa after more than three years of ISIS rule. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have been circling in on Raqqa since November last year, and on Tuesday announced they would begin a new push. An opposition fighter holds position in clashes with government forces in the rebel-held Syrian city of Raqqa. "ISIS threatens all of our nations, not just Iraq and Syria, but in our own homelands as well. ISIS has used Raqqa as a staging ground for its deadly attacks on the Middle East and further overseas.

Source: CNN June 06, 2017 10:38 UTC