Broadcast headlines are once again dominated by the floods in the north of England today, with Sky News focussing on potential further “misery” to come as a result of Storm Frank – due to hit the region tonight.
SYRIA
There are various reports in the papers today following the release of a strike update that confirmed a Reaper drone fired a Hellfire missile against a militant checkpoint, south of Raqqa, on Christmas Day. Articles, including The Times and Mirror, suggest that Daesh guards were at the checkpoint and may have been killed and also report that this is the first time that the RAF has hit a target in Syria away from oilfields in the east of the country.
Read the latest strike update here.
IRAQ
Most newspapers mark Iraqi forces’ retaking Ramadi from Daesh militants which was confirmed yesterday. Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond is quoted in the Sun, saying 'This is the latest in a series of significant losses for Daesh', adding that they have been 'driven out by Iraqi forces, with support from the UK and the global coalition'. Mr Hammond also says that RAF close air support operations 'played a key role' in the offensive.
The Daily Telegraph reports that Iraq has pledged to use the newly reclaimed city as a springboard to take Daesh’s stronghold of Mosul and deliver a 'fatal blow' to them, although experts warn it could be another year before ground forces are ready.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said:
Our RAF continues to provide crucial support to Iraqi forces as they drive Daesh back. Armed reconnaissance missions and strikes by our Tornados, Typhoons and Reapers have made a vital contribution to the Ramadi offensive.
We owe a debt of thanks to the brave and dedicated personnel working round the clock on these operations during the Christmas period.
IMAGE OF THE DAY
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