Islamic State claims it has captured Iraqi city of Ramadi

A purported message from the Islamic State group yesterday claims it holds entire city of Ramadi after Iraqi forces fled.

The message came after Iraq’s prime minister Haider al-Abadi ordered his country’s security forces not to abandon their positions in Anbar province to the militants. Some troops left their weapons and vehicles behind to flee the militants.

The message said militants held the 8th Brigade army base, as well as tanks and missile launchers left behind by fleeing soldiers. The message was similar to others released by the group and spread online by known supporters of the extremists.

One official in Anbar province said the city had fallen to the militants. Another denied it when reached by the AP. Federal authorities had no immediate comment. – (PA)