Anbar campaign (2015–2016)

{{main|Battle of Ramadi (2014–2015)}}

{{Expand section|date=December 2015}}

On May 17, 2015, ISIL captured the city of Ramadi, after launching an assault which included mortars, rockets, and multiple waves of suicide attacks with vehicles during a sandstorm, which caused Iraqi forces to retreat from the city.

On the dawn of July 13, the Iraqi Army, backed by the Shiite and Sunni pro-government militias, launched an assault on several fronts in Anbar, including on Ramadi. According to the police sources in the province, the Iraqi forces pushed towards Ramadi from the west and the south. According to ISIL supporters, the advances of the Iraqi forces were repelled by militants.{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-iraq-idUSKCN0PN0O620150713 |title=Iraq launches offensive to drive Islamic State from biggest province |work=Reuters|date=July 13, 2015 |access-date=July 30, 2015|last1=Evans |first1=Dominic }} By the afternoon, the Iraqi Army retook the Ramadi Olympic stadium in western Ramadi and reached the eastern part of the city. According to Iraqi officials, pro-government fighters also pushed the extremists from the areas east of Ramadi.{{cite web |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/iraq-security-forces-launch-operation-to-oust-islamists-from-anbar-province-1436776138 |title=Iraq Security Forces Launch Operation to Oust Islamists From Anbar Province |author=Matt Bradley And Ghassan Adnan|date=July 13, 2015|work=WSJ|access-date=July 30, 2015}} On July 20, the Olympic stadium was destroyed by ISIL militants with remotely detonated explosives. According to military officials said that there may have been number of Shiite militia fighters may have been inside the stadium at the time of its destruction, but they did not offer casualty figures.{{cite web |url=http://europe.newsweek.com/isis-blows-iraqi-sports-stadium-near-ramadi-330605|title=ISIS Blows Up Iraqi Sports Stadium Near Ramadi |date=July 21, 2015|work=Newsweek|access-date=July 30, 2015}} On July 23, Iraqi government announced that it had deployed United States-trained Iraqi troops for the first time to retake Ramadi. The Shiite militia commanders said that currently the initial main focus was on retaking Fallujah rather than Ramadi and the Iraqi government indicated that will not be used to liberate Ramadi.{{cite web |url=https://news.yahoo.com/u-defense-chief-makes-surprise-trip-iraq-074707097.html |title=Iraq deploys U.S.-trained troops to Ramadi fight for first time|date=July 23, 2015|work=Yahoo News|access-date=July 30, 2015}} On July 26, pro-government forces took back the complete control of University of Anbar from ISIL fighters. It was retaken by forces from Iraq's Counter Terrorism Services with support from the Iraqi army and air support from the international coalition and Iraqi aircraft.{{cite web|url=http://www.economictimes.com/news/international/world-news/iraq-forces-retake-university-on-edge-of-ramadi/articleshow/48225137.cms|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160822142204/http://www.economictimes.com/news/international/world-news/iraq-forces-retake-university-on-edge-of-ramadi/articleshow/48225137.cms|url-status=dead|archive-date=August 22, 2016|title=Iraq forces retake university on edge of Ramadi|work=The Economic Times|access-date=July 30, 2015}} On July 29, 12 Iraqi soldiers were killed when ISIL suicide attackers rammed 2 explosive-laden Humvees into forces deployed outside the university's compound.{{cite news|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2015/07/29/Two-suicide-attacks-kill-at-least-12-Iraqi-troops-near-Ramadi.html |title=Suicide attacks kill at least 12 Iraqi troops near Ramadi |publisher=Al-Arabiya News |date=July 29, 2015 |access-date=January 5, 2016}}

On August 11, a senior official with the US-led Coalition said that Iraqi forces had surrounded the city and were preparing for a final assault to retake it.{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2015/08/11/coalition-says-iraqis-close-taking-ramadi/31474589/|title=Coalition says Iraqis close to taking Ramadi|date=August 11, 2015|work=USA TODAY|access-date=December 20, 2015}} On August 23, 23 Iraqi soldiers including 17 Iraqi military soldiers and 6 allied Sunni fighters were killed by ISIL in an attack that involved the use of suicide bombers and artillery.[https://web.archive.org/web/20200324030412/https://www.voanews.com/world-news/middle-east-dont-use/attack-anbar-kills-23 IS Attack in Anbar Kills 23] On August 25, Iraqi forces repelled an ISIL suicide attack west of Ramadi by destroying three booby-trapped vehicles and killing everyone inside them.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/iraqi-security-forces-repel-isis-attack-west-ramadi/|title=Iraqi security forces repel ISIS attack west of Ramadi|author=Amre Sarhan|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news|date=August 25, 2015|access-date=December 20, 2015}} On August 27, 2 Iraqi army generals and 3 soldiers were killed in a suicide attack while 10 other soldiers were wounded.{{cite web|url=http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2015/8/27/iraqi-army-generals-killed-in-isil-suicide-bombing.html|title=Iraqi Army Generals Killed in ISIL Suicide Bombing - Al Jazeera America|access-date=December 20, 2015}} On September 10, an airstrike by the US-led coalition destroyed an ISIL operating base and staging area in a stadium near Ramadi.{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/video/2015/sep/11/coalition-airstrike-islamic-state-base-ramadi-iraq-video|title=US-led coalition airstrike destroys Islamic State base in Iraq – video|date=September 11, 2015|work=the Guardian|access-date=December 20, 2015}} On September 15, it was reported that a force of 160 US troops had arrived at Habbaniyah air base and were expected to help the Iraqi army retake Ramadi. The unconfirmed reports also claimed that USA agreed to take part in ground combat against ISIL if the Popular Front forces withdrew from Anbar. However, these reports were dismissed by an Iraqi army spokesman who said that the US troops at the air base were there to simply provide military advice and coordinate raids against ISIL targets. Popular Front spokesman Karim Al-Nouri also dismissed these reports saying that the Popular Front militia was still deployed in Anbar.{{cite web|url=https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/news/middle-east/21109-iraq-denies-us-participation-in-ground-battles-in-ramadi|title=Iraq denies US participation in ground battles in Ramadi|work=Middle East Monitor - The Latest from the Middle East|access-date=December 20, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304121452/https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/news/middle-east/21109-iraq-denies-us-participation-in-ground-battles-in-ramadi|archive-date=March 4, 2016|url-status=dead}}

By late September, the operation to retake Ramadi was considered to have stalled, with Iraqi security forces positioned on the outskirts of Ramadi, but unable to mount an incursion into the city.{{cite web|url=http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2015/09/15/ramadi-fight/71641602/|title=No end in sight for Iraq fight against ISIS in Ramadi|date=September 15, 2015|work=MilitaryTimes|access-date=December 20, 2015}}{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/the-battle-to-retake-ramadi-is-going-nowhere/2015/09/03/8e4d4792-4dac-11e5-80c2-106ea7fb80d4_story.html|title=The battle to retake Ramadi is going nowhere|author=Loveday Morris|date=September 6, 2015|newspaper=Washington Post|access-date=December 20, 2015}} Political squabbles between Iranian backed militias and the Abadi administration were also hampering potential offensives.{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2015/09/21/iraq-political-dissaray-slows-ramadi-campaign/72362740/|title=Iraq political disarray slows Ramadi campaign|date=September 21, 2015|work=USA TODAY|access-date=December 20, 2015}} On September 25, the United States urged the Iraqi Army to hasten the operation, acknowledging that "...the Iraqis have not made any significant forward movement recently".{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-iraq-ramadi-idUSKCN0RP24I20150925 |title=U.S. urges Iraqi forces to move 'as quickly as possible' to retake Ramadi |author= |date=September 25, 2015 |work=Reuters|access-date=December 20, 2015}}

On October 7, Iraqi forces renewed their operations in Ramadi, capturing several areas to the north and west, including the main road west of Ramadi.{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2015/10/07/Iraq-forces-retake-areas-around-Ramadi-.html|title=Iraqi forces retake areas around Ramadi|date=October 7, 2015|access-date=December 20, 2015}} By October 13, Iraqi troops had advanced 15 kilometers and encircled the city according to US officials.{{cite web|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/news/us-says-iraqis-ready-to-force-isis-out-of-ramadi-with-air-support/|title=US, Iraqis ready to push ISIS out of Ramadi with air support|website=CBS News|date=October 13, 2015|access-date=December 20, 2015}}{{cite web|url=https://www.voanews.com/a/coalition-spokesman-now-time-for-push-into-ramadi/3004506.html|title=Coalition Spokesman: Now Time for Push Into Ramadi|work=VOA|date=October 13, 2015 |access-date=December 20, 2015}} Further Iraqi military reinforcements including artillery batteries and tanks arrived in the nearby town of Khaldiyah on November 10, in preparation for another assault on Ramadi.{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2015/11/10/Offensive-against-Islamic-State-in-Ramadi-looms-as-dozens-are-killed-across-Iraq/7821447190549/|title=Assault on Ramadi looms as dozens are killed across Iraq - UPI.com|date=November 10, 2015|work=UPI|access-date=December 20, 2015}} Iraqi forces recaptured the emergency directorate headquarters in Ramadi on November 14.{{cite web|url=http://www.albawaba.com/news/iraqi-army-seizes-emergency-directorate-hq-ramadi-768046|title=Iraqi army seizes emergency directorate HQ in Ramadi|work=Al Bawaba|access-date=December 20, 2015}}

{{main|Battle of Ramadi (2015–2016)}}

On November 25, Iraqi forces launched the offensive to recapture Ramadi,{{cite web|url=http://www.militarytimes.com/story/breaking-news/2015/11/26/iraqis-offensive-retake-ramadi-islamic-state-isis-isil/76411738/|title=Iraqis launch offensive to retake Ramadi from ISIS|date=November 26, 2015|work=MilitaryTimes|access-date=February 5, 2016}} cutting ISIL's last supply line into the city of Ramadi, via the Euphrates River, by seizing the strategic Palestine Bridge.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iraqi-forces-cut-last-isil-supply-line-into-ramadi-by-retaking-bridge/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151130044341/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iraqi-forces-cut-last-isil-supply-line-into-ramadi-by-retaking-bridge/|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 30, 2015|title=Iraqi Forces Cut Last ISIL Supply Line into Ramadi by Retaking Bridge|author=News Desk|work=Al-Masdar News|date=November 27, 2015|access-date=December 20, 2015}}

On December 8, Iraqi forces pushed into the city,{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/23/world/middleeast/iraqi-army-isis-ramadi.html|title=Iraqi Forces Fighting ISIS for Ramadi Push Toward City Center|date=December 23, 2015|work=The New York Times}} and Iraqi forces captured Tamin, a key district in the south-western area of Ramadi.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-35038983|title=IS conflict: Iraqi forces 'retake key Ramadi district'|work=BBC News|date=December 8, 2015|access-date=December 20, 2015}} The Iraqi Army also recaptured the Anbar Operation Control Center, near the Palestine Bridge.{{Cite web |url=http://www.understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/Ramadi%20Control%20Map%202015-12-22%20high_7.png |title=Control Map of Ramadi, Dec 22, 2015 |access-date=January 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160201072834/http://www.understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/Ramadi%20Control%20Map%202015-12-22%20high_7.png |archive-date=February 1, 2016 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }} On December 10, ISIL forces blew up the Warrar Dam,{{cite web|url=http://www.military.com/daily-news/2015/12/10/is-destroys-bridge-iraqi-forces-close-ramadi.html|title=ISIS Destroys Bridge as Iraqi Forces Close in on Ramadi|work=Military.com|access-date=February 5, 2016}} which linked the Anbar Operations Control Center to northwestern Ramadi city, leaving the Qassim Bridge as the last working bridge in Ramadi.

On December 22, Iraqi forces advanced into the center of the city of Ramadi, and headed towards the main government complex.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35158105|title=Iraqi forces 'advance into Islamic State-held Ramadi'|work=BBC News|date=December 22, 2015|access-date=December 22, 2015}} The attack was launched from al-Tamim and al-Humaira Districts in the southwest and south, northwards on 3 axes into the central al-Hoz District, and the Andalus and al-Malab Districts further east.{{Cite web |url=http://www.understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/Ramadi%20Control%20Map%20-%20Central%20ramadi%202015-12-22%20high_4.png |title=Control Map of Ramadi City Center, Dec 22, 2015 |access-date=January 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160201082514/http://www.understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/Ramadi%20Control%20Map%20-%20Central%20ramadi%202015-12-22%20high_4.png |archive-date=February 1, 2016 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }} On December 27, the Iraqi Army captured the government complex, after which they declared victory in Ramadi,{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-iraq-ramadi-idUSKBN0UA06P20151227|title=Iraqi army declares first major victory over Islamic State in Ramadi|author=Ahmed Rasheed and Maher Chmaytelli|date=December 27, 2015|work=Reuters|access-date=February 5, 2016}} and claimed to be in full control of the city center.{{cite news|title = Iraq forces in 'full control' of central Ramadi - BBC News|work = BBC News|date = December 28, 2015|url = https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35186105|access-date = December 29, 2015|language = en-GB}} However, on the following day, it was confirmed ISIL was still in control of 30 percent of the city.{{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/iraqi-commander-progress-held-ramadi-35970660|title=International News - World News - ABC News|author=ABC News|work=ABC News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} On December 30, 2015, the Iraqi Prime Minister visited Ramadi and raised the Iraqi flag at the government complex. ISIL casualties during the battle were reportedly high, while Iraqi Army casualties were low.{{Cite news|title = Islamic State suffers double blow as Ramadi falls, leaders killed|url = https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-idUSKBN0UD05E20151230|newspaper = Reuters|date = December 30, 2015|access-date = December 30, 2015}}

On January 3, 2016, the Iraqi Government declared that it had recaptured 80% of Ramadi city, and that the only pockets of ISIL resistance remaining were located in the al-Malab and 20th Street areas of the city.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/anbar-police-announces-liberating-80-ramadi/|title=Anbar police announces liberating 80% of Ramadi|author=Amre Sarhan|date=January 3, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} On January 20, the city of Ramadi was reportedly cleared of ISIL forces, after over 6 months of fighting.{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/voices/2016/01/19/voices-heartening-victory-over-islamic-state/78783518/|title=Voices: A heartening victory over the Islamic State.|date=January 19, 2016|work=USA TODAY|access-date=February 5, 2016}} Iraqi forces began moving eastward to Khalidiya Island, after clearing ISIL-held neighborhoods near the area.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/security-forces-completes-its-preparations-to-cleanse-khalidiya-island-east-of-ramadi/|title=Security forces ready to cleanse Khalidiya Island east of Ramadi|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=January 20, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} On January 21, US Vice President Joe Biden congratulated the Iraqi Security Forces for liberating the city of Ramadi from ISIL control, during a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister al-Abadi.{{cite web|url=https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/the-press-office/2016/01/21/readout-vice-president-bidens-meeting-prime-minister-haidar-al-abadi|work=whitehouse.gov|title=Readout of Vice President Biden's Meeting with Prime Minister Haidar Al-Abadi of Iraq|date=January 21, 2016|via=National Archives|access-date=February 5, 2016}}

On January 22, Iraqi forces fully entered the Sajjariyah District, and they also entered the ISIL-held areas in the Joabah and Husaiyah Districts, to the east of Ramadi.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/iraqi-army-forces-advance-joabah-sajariyah-husaiybah-areas-east-ramadi/|title=Iraqi army forces advance into Joabah, Sajariyah and Husaiybah areas east of Ramadi|author=Amre Sarhan|date=January 22, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} On January 23, ISIL launched suicide attacks in the Kilo 70 area west of Ramadi, and in the Tal Msheheidah east of Ramadi, as well as areas to the north of Ramadi; the ensuing clashes and airstrikes led to the deaths of 62 ISIL militants and 48 Iraqi fighters. On January 24, Iraqi Defense Minister said that the Iraqi Army was preparing for an offensive on Mosul, stating that the Iraqi Army and Coalition forces had defeated ISIL in Ramadi.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/iraqi-forces-preparing-launch-mosul-offensive-says-obeidi/|title=Iraqi forces are preparing to launch Mosul offensive, says Obeidi|author=Amre Sarhan|date=January 24, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} Later on the same day, 190 people suspected of collaborating with ISIL were arrested in Ramadi,{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/anbar-police-arrests-190-suspects-of-links-with-lsis-in-ramadi/|title=Anbar police arrests 190 suspects of links with lSIS in Ramadi|author=Loaa Adel|date=January 24, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} even as fighting shifted to the Husaiybah District, to the east of Ramadi.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/11-isis-fighters-killed-4-defense-sites-destroyed-east-of-ramadi/|title=11 ISIS fighters killed, 4 defense sites destroyed east of Ramadi|author=Loaa Adel|date=January 24, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} On January 26, the Iraqi Army found and destroyed the ISIL headquarters in eastern Ramadi, in the al-Sofiyah District, killing at least 6 ISIL militants.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/6-isis-members-killed-communications-headquarters-east-of-ramadi/|title=Security forces kill 6 ISIS fighters, destruct their headquarters in eastern Ramadi|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=January 26, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}}

During the next week, as the Iraqi Army closed in on the Sajjariyah District, the last area in Ramadi held by ISIL,{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/anti-terrorism-bureau-announces-liberation-of-95-of-ramadi/|title=Anti-Terrorism Bureau announces liberation of 95% of Ramadi|author=Loaa Adel|date=January 28, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} ISIL launched multiple waves of suicide attacks in the Ramadi area, killing dozens of Iraqi soldiers.{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/01/isil-bombs-kill-dozens-iraqi-soldiers-ramadi-160127102416122.html|title=ISIL kills dozens of Iraqi soldiers near Ramadi|access-date=February 5, 2016}}{{cite web|title = New ISIL attacks kill more than 30 Iraqi forces|url = http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/01/isil-attacks-kill-30-iraqi-forces-160128094746545.html|website = www.aljazeera.com|access-date = January 29, 2016}} On February 4, 2016, the Iraqi Army recaptured the Sajjariyah District, fully expelling ISIL from Ramadi.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/anbar-council-announces-liberating-al-sajariyah-area-east-ramadi/|title=Anbar Council announces liberating al-Sajariyah area east of Ramadi|author=Amre Sarhan|date=February 4, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} The 2015–2016 Battle of Ramadi was the first time since the Fall of Mosul in which the Iraqi Army played the primary role in combating ISIL.

On February 1, the Iraqi Army launched an offensive on the Khalidiya Island area, which is the region located between the villages Albu Nasir and Albu Shajal, situated between Ramadi and Fallujah.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/army-forces-advance-to-liberate-albu-shehab-albu-shagl-areas-in-khaildiya-island/|title=Army forces advance to liberate Albu Shehab & Albu Shagl areas in Khalidiya Island|author=Loaa Adel|date=February 1, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} On the same day, the Iraqi Army managed to capture the villages of Albu Shalib and Albu Shajal, to the northwest of Fallujah.{{cite web|url=http://www.understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/iraq%20SITREP%202016-02-01.pdf|title=Iraq Situation Report: January 26 – February 1, 2016|access-date=June 26, 2016}} On February 2, the Iraqi Army fully severed the last supply lines between the Khalidiya Island region and the city of Fallujah, completely besieging the city.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/security-forces-cut-off-isis-supply-routes-fallujah-khalediya-island/|title=Security forces cut off ISIS supply routes between Fallujah and Khalediya Island|author=Amre Sarhan|date=February 2, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}} This led to concerns that an estimated 30,000 civilians trapped in Fallujah would starve, due to the lack of airdropped supplies into the city.{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/trapped-by-the-islamic-state-iraqis-in-fallujah-say-they-are-going-hungry-too/2016/02/01/b065e568-c3a0-11e5-b933-31c93021392a_story.html|title=Trapped by the Islamic State, Iraqis in Fallujah say they are going hungry, too|author=Loveday Morris|date=February 1, 2016|newspaper=Washington Post|access-date=February 5, 2016}} On February 4, after Ramadi city was recaptured from ISIL, offensive operations shifted further eastward to the Khalidiya Island area.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/joint-forces-launch-massive-attack-south-eastern-mosul/|title=Joint forces launch massive attack south-east of Mosul|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=February 4, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=February 5, 2016}}

On February 8, the Iraqi Army recaptured the Juwaybah District, to the east of Ramadi, east of the Sajjariyah District.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/security-forces-fully-liberate-juwiba-raise-iraqi-flag-over-its-buildings/|title=Security forces fully liberate Juwiba, raise Iraqi flag over its buildings|author=Loaa Adel|date=February 8, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} On February 9, Iraqi forces entered the center of Husaiybah, the last ISIL-held village to the east of Ramadi.{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/02/isis-iraq-army-enters-isil-stronghold-ramadi-160209155321007.html|title=Iraq army enters last ISIL stronghold in Ramadi|access-date=March 24, 2016}} Later on the same day, the Iraqi Army fully recaptured the Husaiybah Al-Sharqiyah District, about 10 kilometers (6 miles) east of Ramadi, thus fully expelling ISIL from the environs of Ramadi.{{cite web|url=https://news.yahoo.com/iraqs-ramadi-retaken-rebuilding-huge-task-172924072.html|title=Iraq's Ramadi retaken, but rebuilding it a huge task|date=February 9, 2016|work=Yahoo News|access-date=March 24, 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iraqi-army-liberates-all-of-ramadi/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160210150303/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iraqi-army-liberates-all-of-ramadi/|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 10, 2016|title=Iraqi Army liberates all of Ramadi|author=Leith Fadel|date=February 9, 2016|work=Al-Masdar News|access-date=March 24, 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-iraq-ramadi-idUSKCN0VI0OU|title=Iraq's troubled finances slow efforts to rebuild Ramadi|author=Stephen Kalin and Ahmed Rasheed|date=February 9, 2016|work=Reuters|access-date=March 24, 2016}} Dozens of ISIL militants were killed in the clashes in Husaiybah.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/security-forces-liberate-husaybah-area-killing-dozens-of-isis-fighters-east-of-ramadi/|title=Security forces liberate Husaibah area, kill dozens of ISIS fighters east of Ramadi|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=February 9, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} The Iraqi Army also began evacuating 1,500 civilians from the Husaiybah Al-Sharqiyah District.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/anti-terrorism-forces-evacuate-1500-civilians-from-husaibah/|title=Anti-Terrorism forces evacuate 1500 civilians from Husaibah|author=Loaa Adel|date=February 9, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} Afterwards, the Iraqi Government reopened the Ramadi-Habbaniyah Highway. ISIL militants were still holed up in some farmlands in Khalidiya Island, to the north of the town of Al Khalidiya. On February 10, it was reported that the Iraqi Army had fully recaptured the Khalidiya District, including the Khalidiya Island area,{{cite web|url=http://www.thefinancialexpress-bd.com/2016/02/10/14933|title=Iraqi troops fully capture Ramadi|work=The Financial Express Online Version|access-date=March 24, 2016}} but there was renewed fighting in Khalidiya Island area since March 2016.[http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/anbar-operations-start-liberating-khalidiya-island/ Anbar Operations start liberating Khalidiya Island], Iraqinews.com Because there was still resistance in the area, the army started a new offensive on May 25, 2016.[http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/anbar-operations-announces-starting-khalidiya-island-liberation-operation/ Anbar Operations announces starting Khalidiya Island liberation operation], Iraqinews.com

On February 14, an Iraqi airstrike killed an ISIL commander in the Kartan area of the Khalidiya District, along with 14 other ISIL militants.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/isis-military-commander-kartan-killed-coalition-strike-east-ramadi/|title=ISIS military commander of Kartan killed in coalition strike east of Ramadi|author=Amre Sarhan|date=February 14, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} Later on the same day, the Iraqi Government reported that the Sedikiyah area in the eastern Khalidiya District was ready for the return of displaced civilians, after IEDs left behind by ISIL in the area had been dismantled.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/khalidiya-council-sedikiya-area-is-ready-for-displaced-people-return/|title=Khalidiya Council: Sedikiya area is ready for displaced people return|author=Loaa Adel|date=February 14, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} On February 16, the Iraqi Army launched a clearing operation in the Hamidiyah District, to the northeast of Ramadi's Albu Ghanem District.{{cite web|url=http://understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/iraq%20SITREP%202016-02-17.pdf|title=Iraq Situation Report: February 12 – 17, 2016|access-date=June 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011120141/http://understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/iraq%20SITREP%202016-02-17.pdf|archive-date=October 11, 2016|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} On February 19, the Iraqi Army completely cleared the Hamidiyah District from ISIL forces, killing dozens of ISIL fighters.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/anbar-operations-announces-liberating-hamediyah-east-ramadi/|title=Anbar Operations announces liberating Hamediyah east of Ramadi|author=Amre Sarhan|date=February 19, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} On February 21, the US-led Coalition bombed an ISIL gathering in Khalidiya Island, killing 7 ISIL leaders.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/7-isis-leaders-killed-in-alliance-bombing-eastern-ramadi/|title=7 ISIS leaders killed in coalition bombardment in eastern Ramadi|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=February 21, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}}

{{main|Siege of Fallujah (2016)}}

From February 15 to 19, the Iraqi Army launched an offensive into the town of Al-Karmah, to the northeast of Fallujah, killing dozens of ISIL militants.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/joint-forces-begin-military-operation-to-free-karmat-fallujah/|title=Joint forces begin military operation to free Karmat Fallujah|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=February 15, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/security-forces-advance-inside-al-karmat-fallujah-kill-dozens-of-isis-fighters/|title=Security forces advance into Karmat Fallujah, kill dozens of ISIS fighters|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=February 19, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}}

On February 18, a large number of local Sunni tribesmen revolted against ISIL, after ISIL beat a woman, among other restrictive practices enforces by ISIL's Al-Hisbah secret police, amid an ongoing siege. ISIL was reported to have withdrawn into Fallujah city, after local Sunnis burned the Al-Hisbah headquarters and clashes spread.{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/sunni-tribesmen-clash-with-islamic-state-in-fallujah-as-resentment-boils/2016/02/19/2a21ce95-e7c0-4a3c-89e8-f02005d9400b_story.html|title=Islamic State faces new trouble in Fallujah as Sunni tribesmen revolt|author=Loveday Morris|date=February 19, 2016|newspaper=Washington Post|access-date=March 24, 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/isis-terror/isis-beating-woman-triggers-fallujah-clashes-officials-n521671|title=ISIS Beating Woman Triggers Fallujah Clashes: Officials|author=NBC News|work=NBC News|date=February 19, 2016 |access-date=March 24, 2016}} On February 20, the clashes began to die down as ISIL began carrying out mass arrests, and it was reported that there were still some Sunni fighters who were pinned down in parts of Fallujah, who would likely be massacred if the Iraqi Government or the US-led Coalition does not intervene.{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/is-the-islamic-state-losing-its-grip-on-fallujah/2016/02/20/c86adda2-7416-4cb8-9be5-4ec5d30d3882_story.html|title=Is the Islamic State losing its grip on Fallujah?|author=Loveday Morris|date=February 20, 2016|newspaper=Washington Post|access-date=March 24, 2016}} On February 21, the Iraqi Army began shelling ISIL positions on the outskirts of Fallujah, in support of the Sunni tribal fighters.{{cite news|url=http://www.rferl.org/content/iraqi-tribesmen-battling-is-fallujah/27564789.html|title=Fighting In Iraq's Fallujah 'Stops After IS Group Seizes Residents'|work=RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty|date=February 21, 2016 |access-date=March 24, 2016}} Late on February 21, ISIL crushed the revolt, and detained 180 men.{{cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/islamic-state-reasserts-control-over-fallujah-1456073090|title=Islamic State Reasserts Control Over Fallujah|author=Tamer El-Ghobashy|date=February 21, 2016|work=WSJ|access-date=March 24, 2016}} However, on the same day, the Iraqi Army deployed reinforcements to Fallujah, in preparation to storm the city.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/military-armored-reinforcements-arrived-around-fallujah-in-preparation-for-storming-it/|title=Military reinforcements arrived in Fallujah, security forces prepare to storm the city|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=February 21, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}}

On February 23, the Iraqi Army fully recaptured the town of Al-Karmah, after they destroyed ISIL's last stronghold in the town.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/9-isis-suicide-bombers-killed-while-trying-to-attack-security-forces-in-al-karma/|title=9 ISIS suicide bombers killed while trying to attack security forces in Karma|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=February 23, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} On February 25, the Iraqi Governor of Anbar stated that the battle for Fallujah would begin soon, and that it would be much shorter than the battle for Ramadi.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/148371/|title=Liberation of Fallujah will be faster than Ramadi, says Anbar Governor|author=Amre Sarhan|date=February 25, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}}

On February 27, the Iraqi Government reported that 600 ISIL fighters had managed to flee Fallujah to nearby areas,{{cite web|url=http://en.abna24.com/service/middle-east-west-asia/archive/2016/02/28/737758/story.html|title=600 ISIS Fighters Flee Fallujah in Northern Iraq|date=February 28, 2016|access-date=March 24, 2016}} and to the city of Mosul.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/600-isis-fighters-fled-from-fallujah-to-mosul/|title=600 ISIS fighters fled from Fallujah to Mosul|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=February 27, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} On February 28, the Shi'ite militia forces repelled an ISIL attack on Al-Karmah, which was described as one of the largest attacks on the town.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/volunteer-forces-repel-isis-attack-al-karma-anbar/|title=Volunteer forces repel ISIS attack on al-Karma, Anbar|author=Amre Sarhan|date=February 28, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} Later on the same day, Iraqi government forces repelled a massive ISIL suicide attack in Abu Ghraib and western Baghdad, which was the largest attack carried out by the group in the area in nearly 2 years. The assault left 30 ISIL militants and 30 Iraqi soldiers dead.{{cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/islamic-state-militants-fight-iraqi-forces-in-abu-ghraib-1456668706|title=Islamic State Launches Attacks in Baghdad|author=Tamer El-Ghobashy and Ghassan Adnan|date=February 29, 2016|work=WSJ|access-date=March 24, 2016}} The Iraqi army carried out an offensive on the city of Fallujah liberated the hospital and captured al-Karmah on May 23, 2016.{{Cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/strategic-iraqi-city-liberated-isis/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160526173502/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/strategic-iraqi-city-liberated-isis/|url-status=dead|archive-date=May 26, 2016|title = Symbolic victory for the Iraqi Army in Karma|date = May 26, 2016}} On June 26, 2016, the Iraqi Army liberated Al-Fallujah after liberating the last ISIS held neighborhood of Al-Jolan.{{Cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-iraqi-army-liberates-fallujah-national-hospital/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160523123012/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-iraqi-army-liberates-fallujah-national-hospital/|url-status=dead|archive-date=May 23, 2016|title=Breaking: Iraqi Army liberates Fallujah General Hospital|last=Fadel|first=Leith|date=May 23, 2016|website=Al-Masdar News|language=en-US|access-date=June 21, 2016}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iraqi-army-officially-liberates-fallujah/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160626101237/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iraqi-army-officially-liberates-fallujah/|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 26, 2016|title=Iraqi Army officially liberates Fallujah|date=June 26, 2016}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iraqi-army-officially-liberates-fallujah/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160626101237/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iraqi-army-officially-liberates-fallujah/|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 26, 2016|title=Iraqi Army Officially liberate Fallujah|last=Leith|first=Fadel|date=June 26, 2016}}

{{main|Hīt offensive (2016)}}

On February 19, it was revealed that the next target of Iraqi operations in the Anbar Province was going to be the town of Hīt, with an estimated 12,000 civilians and 300–400 ISIL militants in the town, and many more ISIL militants in the surrounding area.{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/with-islamic-state-under-pressure-iraqi-forces-hope-to-reclaim-city-of-hit/2016/02/18/4e7c7bcc-d4ae-11e5-a65b-587e721fb231_story.html|title=With Islamic State under pressure, Iraqi forces hope to reclaim city of Hit|author=Loveday Morris|date=February 19, 2016|newspaper=Washington Post|access-date=March 24, 2016}} On February 23, the Iraqi government deployed reinforcements to the Ain al-Assad airbase near Hīt, in preparation for a future offensive to recapture both Kabisa and the Hīt District from ISIL.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/military-reinforcements-arrive-assad-base-participate-liberating-heet-city-anbar/|title=Military reinforcements arrive in Assad base to participate in liberating Heet City, Anbar|author=Amre Sarhan|date=February 23, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} On the same day, clashes erupted between local Sunni tribesmen and ISIL forces in the Hīt District.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/armed-clashes-erupt-tribal-fighters-isis-heet-anbar/|title=Armed clashes erupt between tribal fighters and ISIS in Heet, Anbar|author=Amre Sarhan|date=February 23, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} On the next day, the US-led Coalition destroyed the ISIL headquarters in Hīt and Kabisa, killing multiple ISIL militants.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/isis-headquarters-in-heet-kabisa-destructed-by-coalition-bombardment/|title=ISIS headquarters in Heet & Kabisa destructed by coalition bombardment|author=Loaa Adel|date=February 24, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}} On February 28, the Iraqi government warned the civilians in Kabisa and the Hīt District to leave within 48 hours, to avoid an imminent offensive to recapture those areas.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/security-forces-prepare-to-storm-heet-and-kabisa-give-48-hours-to-residents-to-leave/|title=Security forces prepare to storm Heet and Kabisa, give residents 48 hours to leave|author=Abdelhak Mamoun|date=February 28, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=March 24, 2016}}

On March 12, the Iraqi Government launched the offensive to recapture the Hīt District, also known as Operation Desert Lynx.{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/iraqi-security-forces-anbar-tribes-launch-operation-desert-lynx-liberate-hit-2335317|title=Iraqi Security Forces, Anbar Tribes Launch Operation Desert Lynx To Liberate Hit|website=International Business Times|date=March 12, 2016|access-date=June 26, 2016}} On the same day, U.S.-led Coalition forces conducted several airstrikes within Hīt, killing a number of ISIL leaders and militants, which Iraqi officials confirmed.{{cite web|url=http://aranews.net/2016/03/u-s-led-coalition-strikes-isis-sharia-court-iraqs-anbar-kills-top-leaders/|title=U.S.-led coalition strikes ISIS Sharia Court in Iraq's Anbar, kills top leaders - ARA News|work=ARA News|access-date=March 31, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171206005935/http://aranews.net/2016/03/u-s-led-coalition-strikes-isis-sharia-court-iraqs-anbar-kills-top-leaders/|archive-date=December 6, 2017|url-status=dead}}

On March 17, Iraqi Security Forces and their allies drove ISIL forces out of al-Mohammadi, located southeast of Hīt.{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2016-03/17/c_135198909.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160423121902/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2016-03/17/c_135198909.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 23, 2016|title=Security forces free village from IS militants in Iraq's Anbar|publisher=Xinhua|date=March 17, 2016}}

On March 21, the Iraqi Army came within 1 kilometer of the eastern outskirts of Hīt.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/security-forces-advance-1-km-away-heet-anbar/|title=Security forces advance 1 km away from Heet, Anbar - Iraqi News|first=Amre|last=Sarhan|date=March 21, 2016|access-date=June 26, 2016}} On the same day, Iraqi forces paused offensive operations, to give the remaining civilians in the district time to flee.{{cite web|url=http://rudaw.net/english/middleeast/iraq/210320162|title=Hit offensive halted by Iraqi Army|work=Rudaw}} On March 19, the Iraqi Army recaptured the town of Kabisa, to the west-southwest of Hīt.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/security-forces-liberate-kabisa-vicinity-south-heet/|title=Security forces liberate Kabisa vicinity south of Heet - Iraqi News|first=Loaa|last=Adel|date=March 19, 2016|access-date=June 26, 2016}}

On April 1, the Iraqi Army recaptured the northern edge of the city.[http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/04/04/world/booby-traps-bog-iraqi-forces-verge-taking-islamic-state-held-hit/#.VwOTBzEfk3h Booby traps bog down Iraqi forces on verge of taking Islamic State-held Hit], Japan Times, April 4, 2016 The offensive was reported to have been delayed earlier, because hundreds of roadside bombs littering the surrounding area slowed progress for days. Furthermore, it was reported that a significant number of troops had been pulled out of Al Anbar Governorate earlier to protect protesters in Baghdad, which also resulted in delays.[http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2016/04/03/Iraq-forces-free-prisoners-from-underground-ISIS-jail-officials.html Iraq forces free prisoners from ISIS jail], Al-Arabiya, April 3, 2016

On April 5, it was reported that the Iraqi Security Forces had recaptured more than 70% of the Hīt District.{{cite web|url=http://en.abna24.com/service/middle-east-west-asia/archive/2016/04/06/745549/story.html|title=Iraqi security forces control 70% of Heet, ISIS members besieged|publisher=AhlulBayt News Agency|date=April 6, 2016}} The state TV reported a local commander saying that the military had routed ISIL from the city, but that fighting was still going on. The Iraqi Army's control of the town appeared to be incomplete and fragile. An Iraqi commander informed that the insurgents had tried to retake a main street but were repelled. Iraqi forces also managed to seize the government compound and raised the Iraqi flag on a main building, after ISIL militants withdrew from the downtown and eastern part of the town.{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-mideast-crisis-iraq-hit-idUKKCN0X51LF|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160419160109/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-mideast-crisis-iraq-hit-idUKKCN0X51LF|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 19, 2016|title=Iraqi forces push Islamic State from western town of Hit - state TV|newspaper=Reuters|date=April 8, 2016}}

On April 8, Iraqi forces recaptured the Hit town center, and expelled ISIL forces from most of the city, but fighting still continued in the city. At least 30 Iraqi soldiers were killed, and more than 50 were wounded in the clashes.{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/04/iraqi-forces-oust-isil-key-anbar-town-160408144126609.html |title=Iraqi forces oust ISIL from key Anbar town - AJE News |publisher=Aljazeera.com |date=April 8, 2016 |access-date=June 4, 2016}}

On April 14, Iraqi forces fully recaptured the town of Hīt, along with the remainder of the Hīt District.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-36049780|title=Iraqi forces 'recapture IS-held town of Hit' - BBC News|work=BBC News|date=April 14, 2016|access-date=June 26, 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/urgent-iraqi-joint-forces-liberate-heet-district-completely/|title=URGENT: Iraqi joint forces liberate Heet District completely - Iraqi News|first=Abdelhak|last=Mamoun|date=April 14, 2016|access-date=June 26, 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://aranews.net/2016/04/security-forces-expel-isis-key-district-iraqs-ramadi/|title=Security forces expel ISIS from key district in Iraq's Anbar - ARA News|date=April 15, 2016|access-date=June 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171206005939/http://aranews.net/2016/04/security-forces-expel-isis-key-district-iraqs-ramadi/|archive-date=December 6, 2017|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|author=The New Arab & agencies |url=https://www.alaraby.co.uk/english/news/2016/4/14/iraqi-forces-recapture-key-town-from-is-militants |title=Iraqi forces recapture key town from IS militants |publisher=Alaraby.co.uk |date=March 26, 2015 |access-date=June 4, 2016}}

{{main|Ar-Rutbah offensive (2016)}}

On March 13, a senior Iraqi general reported that ISIL has fully withdrawn from the city of Ar-Rutbah to Al-Qa'im, after they began leaving the night before. The withdrawal was confirmed by a member of Anbar's security council. It was also reported that ISIL had abandoned the town of Kabisa as well, and they had also withdrawn from Hīt to some degree, with Iraqi warplanes bombing the retreating militants. This was the first time that ISIL has withdrawn from a major urban area without an actual fight, and the retreat came after recent losses on the battlefield for ISIL in Syria and in the Anbar Province, including a recent offensive on Hīt.{{cite web|url=https://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2016/Mar-13/341957-isis-pulls-out-of-town-in-iraqs-anbar-general.ashx|title=ISIS pulls out of town in Iraq's Anbar: general|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|access-date=March 24, 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://news.yahoo.com/jihadists-pull-town-iraqs-anbar-general-112146905.html|title=IS jihadists pull out of several Iraq towns: officers|date=March 13, 2016|work=Yahoo News|access-date=March 24, 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://rudaw.net/english/middleeast/iraq/13032016|title=Anbar officials see voluntary ISIS withdrawal from some towns|work=Rudaw|access-date=March 24, 2016}} However, ISIL returned to the town on the following day.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/world/middle-east/140316/isis-returns-to-iraqi-town-24-hours-after-vacating-it.html |title=ISIS returns to Iraqi town, 24 hours after vacating it |date=March 14, 2016 |publisher=Deccanchronicle.com |access-date=June 4, 2016}}

On May 16, the Iraqi Army launched an offensive to recapture the town of Ar-Rutbah, and the rest of the Ar-Rutba District.{{cite web|url=http://www.thenational.ae/world/middle-east/iraq-launches-operation-to-retake-anbar-town |title=Iraq launches operation to retake Anbar town | The National |website=Thenational.ae |date=May 16, 2016 |access-date=May 19, 2016}} The Iraqi Army attacked the town from three directions.{{cite news|last=Mamoun |first=Abdelhak |url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/liberalization-operation-rutba-district-starts-3-axes/ |title=Security forces start liberation operation of Rutba District from 3 axes Ar-Rutbah Offensive (2016) |newspaper=Iraqi News |access-date=May 19, 2016}} A US official stated that Ar-Rutbah wasn't as well defended by ISIL as Ramadi or Fallujah, and that there were 100 to several hundred ISIL militants based in the town. On May 17, the Iraqi Army fully recaptured Ar-Rutbah, and the surrounding areas in the Ar-Rutbah District.{{cite web|url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/security-forces-fully-liberate-al-rutba-district-announces-anbar-operations/|title=Security forces fully liberate al-Rutba District, announces Anbar Operations|author=Amre Sarhan|date=May 18, 2016|work=Iraq news, the latest Iraq news by Iraqi News|access-date=May 18, 2016}} During the clashes, at least 4 Iraqi soldiers were killed and 5 more were wounded,{{cite news|last=Mamoun |first=Abdelhak |url=http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/9-security-members-killed-wounded-rutba-district-battles/ |title=9 security members killed, wounded in battles of Rutba District |newspaper=Iraqi News |access-date=May 19, 2016}} and around 100 ISIL fighters were killed.{{cite web|url=http://www.truthdig.com/report/item/baghdad_takes_rutba_islamic_state_jordan-iraq_commercial_route_20160519|title=Baghdad Takes Rutba From Islamic State; Jordan-Iraq Commercial Route to Reopen (Video): Juan Cole|date=May 19, 2016|access-date=June 26, 2016}}

{{main|Battle of Fallujah (2016)}}

On May 22, 2016, the Iraqi Army published a statement and asked residents of the battlefield to leave the area through secured routes. The Iraqi Army also said that local residents who could not move should raise white flags on top of their roofs.[https://web.archive.org/web/20160523111423/http://ca.reuters.com/article/topNews/idCAKCN0YD0AM Iraqi forces prepare offensive on IS-held Falluja, some residents begin to flee] Reuters

Haider al-Abadi ordered to beginning the operation on the early Monday of 23 May. "The Iraqi flag will be raised high over the land of Fallujah." al-Abadi said.[https://www.afp.com/en/news/15/iraq-forces-launch-assault-bastion-fallujah Iraq forces launch assault on IS bastion Fallujah] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160524121447/https://www.afp.com/en/news/15/iraq-forces-launch-assault-bastion-fallujah |date=May 24, 2016 }} Agence France-Presse On May 23, 2016, it was reported the city of Al-Karmah was recaptured by Shiite militias of PMF.[https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/iraqi-military-claims-advances-in-jihadist-held-fallujah/2016/05/23/45b266c6-20e6-11e6-b944-52f7b1793dae_story.html Iraqi military claims advances in Islamic State-held Fallujah], Washington Post Photos published by a PMF media shows Iran's Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani and other PMF commanders discussing Fallujah battle strategies.{{cite web |url=http://en.farsnews.ir/imgrep.aspx?nn=13950304001274 |title=Farsnews |publisher=En.farsnews.ir |access-date=May 27, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160526132944/http://en.farsnews.ir/imgrep.aspx?nn=13950304001274 |archive-date=May 26, 2016 |url-status=dead }} On the first day of the offensive 11 further villages and districts near Fallujah were recaptured, which forced ISIL fighters to retreat to the interior of the strategically important city. The offensive was slowed down because in the outskirts hundreds of improvised explosive devices were found.[http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/isis-terror/iraqi-forces-liberate-villages-isis-fallujah-offensive-n579046 Iraqi Forces 'Liberate' Villages From ISIS in Fallujah Offensive], NBC News

The Popular Mobilization Forces declared on 23 May that they had captured Al-Karmah,{{Cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2016/05/26/middleeast/iraq-karma-falluja/|title=Iraqi troops retake key town from ISIS in Falluja offensive|website=CNN|date=May 26, 2016}} about 16 kilometers (10 miles) northeast of Falluja, which brings most of the territory east of Falluja under government control.{{cite news|last=Hume |first=Tim |url=http://www.cnn.com/2016/05/26/middleeast/iraq-karma-falluja/ |title=Falluja offensive: Iraqi troops retake key town of Karma from ISIS |publisher=CNN.com |access-date=May 28, 2016}} They also announced the liberation of al-Harariyat, al-Shahabi and al-Dwaya and the killing of 40 ISIL militants during the military operation.{{cite news|last=Salim |first=Mustafa |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/iraqi-military-claims-advances-in-jihadist-held-fallujah/2016/05/23/45b266c6-20e6-11e6-b944-52f7b1793dae_story.html |title=Iraqi military claims advances in Islamic State-held Fallujah |newspaper=The Washington Post |access-date=May 28, 2016}} Iraqi government announced that pro-government fighters had captured the villages of Luhaib and Albu Khanfar on 24 May.{{cite news|last=Ryan |first=Missy |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/mixed-iraqi-force-prepares-for-push-into-militant-stronghold-of-fallujah/2016/05/24/475f6b98-21b0-11e6-b944-52f7b1793dae_story.html |title=Mixed Iraqi force prepares for push into militant stronghold of Fallujah |newspaper=The Washington Post |date=December 14, 2012 |access-date=May 28, 2016}}

On 25 May, 16 villages and districts on the eastern outskirts of Fallujah were cleared by the Iraqi Security Forces. Included in this were the gains from a column in the North-East, which liberated the town of Sejar days after the capture of Al-Karmah. These clashes resulted in the death of 40 ISIL militants.{{cite web|url=http://www.kurdistan24.net/en/news/54d203e4-d8c1-45a8-b2d8-5da4dfeb29c2/Iraqi-forces-advance-as-Fallujah-offensive-begins|title=Iraqi forces advance as Fallujah offensive begins|work=Kurdistan24|access-date=May 25, 2016}} An additional 163 ISIL militants, 15 civilians and 35 Iraqi forces and militiamen were killed in clashes which gained the Iraqi army control over the remaining districts in the South-East, allowing them to create a corridor that cut the ISIL-controlled-zone in two. During the day, it was reported an Iranian Basij member was killed in fighting near Fallujah.{{cite web|url=http://www.tasnimnews.com/fa/news/1395/03/05/1084209/%D8%AD%D8%A7%D8%AC-%D9%82%D8%B1%D8%A8%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%86%D8%AC%D9%81%DB%8C-%D8%A8%D9%87-%D8%AC%D9%85%D8%B9-%D8%B4%D9%87%D8%AF%D8%A7%DB%8C-%D9%85%D8%AF%D8%A7%D9%81%D8%B9-%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%85-%D8%A7%D8%B3%D8%AA%D8%A7%D9%86-%DA%AF%D9%84%D8%B3%D8%AA%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%BE%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%B3%D8%AA|title=خبرگزاری تسنیم - " حاج قربان نجفی" به جمع شهدای مدافع حرم استان گلستان پیوست|access-date=June 26, 2016}} According to Qasm Araji, a member of the defense committee, the advancing forces are continuously gaining ground and "nearing Fallujah's Eastern gate."

On 27 May, the US-led coalition conducted airstrikes in and around the city. US-led coalition air and artillery strikes airstrikes in and around Fallujah killed 70 ISIS fighters in Fallujah, including the top commander in the area, Maher Al-Bilawi {{cite news|title=ISIS leader of fallujah killed by US airstrike|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/us-air-strikes-kill-isis-leader-maher-al-bilawi-in-iraqi-city-of-fallujah-a7053061.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160528142109/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/us-air-strikes-kill-isis-leader-maher-al-bilawi-in-iraqi-city-of-fallujah-a7053061.html |archive-date=2016-05-28 |url-access=limited |url-status=live|website=The Independent|access-date=May 27, 2016}} On 28 May, the Iraqi Army declared the start of an operation to liberate Fallujah's city center, considered to be ISIL's stronghold in the western province of Anbar.{{cite web|title=Iraq begins liberating heart of Fallujah|website=Al Arabiya English}}{{cite web|title=Fallujah: Iraqi forces 'closing in' on ISIL-held city|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/05/fallujah-iraqi-forces-closing-isil-held-city-160528125723150.html|website=Al-Jazeera English|access-date=May 28, 2016}}

Early on 30 May, the Iraqi forces began entering the city of Fallujah from 3 directions, and captured the village of Saqlawiyah.{{cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2016/05/31/middleeast/iraq-operation-falluja/index.html|title=ISIS fights Iraqi forces near Falluja, military says|author1=Euan McKirdy |author2=Joshua Berlinger|date=May 31, 2016 |publisher=CNN|access-date=June 26, 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/iraqi-army-advances-into-islamic-state-stronghold-of-fallujah-as-suicide-attacks-rock-baghdad/|title=Iraqi Army Advances Into Islamic State Stronghold of Fallujah As Suicide Attacks Rock Baghdad - VICE News|date=May 30, 2016 |access-date=June 26, 2016}} However, the Iraqi forces faced very stiff resistance from the ISIL forces inside of the city, slowing their advance.{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/iraqi-forces-enter-fallujah-1464594861|title=Iraqi Forces Begin Ground Assault on Fallujah|first=Nour|last=Malas|date=May 31, 2016|access-date=June 26, 2016|newspaper=Wall Street Journal}} By June 26, Fallujah had been declared "fully liberated" by the Iraqi army.

From June 29 to 30, the US-led Coalition and the Iraqi Air Force bombed large convoys of ISIL vehicles fleeing the Ramadi, Khalidiya Island, and Fallujah areas, after ISIL's recent defeat in Fallujah. The airstrikes destroyed over 150 vehicles and killed at least 360 ISIL militants.[https://web.archive.org/web/20160701125654/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2016-06/30/c_135479325.htm Hundreds of IS militants killed in airstrikes near Fallujah]

{{see also|Western Anbar offensive (September 2017)}}

Iraqi Army along with the local tribes launched a new offensive on 5 January 2017 to capture the remaining areas under ISIL control in Anbar with the main targets being the towns of Aanah, Rawa and Al-Qaim.{{cite web|url=http://www.thenational.ae/world/middle-east/iraq-launches-offensive-on-isil-in-anbar-province|title=Iraq launches offensive on ISIL in Anbar province|publisher= The National|access-date=6 January 2017}} The operation was however suspended after retaking of Sagra and Zawiya because of preparations for recapturing the western bank of Mosul.{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2017/08/haditha-anbar-iraq-islamic-state.html|title=After Mosul, Iraq's western Anbar next up in IS fight|publisher= Al-Monitor|access-date=15 September 2017}} Iraqi forces began a new offensive to dislodge the group from the area along the border in September 2017.{{cite web|url=https://www.alaraby.co.uk/english/news/2017/9/16/iraq-launches-offensive-near-syria-border|title=Iraq launches offensive near Syria border|date=September 16, 2017 |publisher= The New Arab|access-date=17 September 2017}}

{{Div col|colwidth=30em}}

• Military intervention against ISIL
• American-led intervention in Syria
• Fall of Mosul
• First Battle of Tikrit
• Siege of Amirli
• Sinjar massacre
• Siege of Fallujah
• Siege of Kobanî
• Fall of Hīt (2014)
• Derna campaign (2014–2016)
• Battle of Baiji (October–December 2014)
• Battle of Baiji (2014–2015)
• December 2014 Sinjar offensive
• Mosul offensive (2015)
• Second Battle of Tikrit (March–April 2015)
• Al-Hawl offensive
• November 2015 Sinjar offensive
• Tishrin Dam offensive
• Al-Shaddadi offensive (2016)
• List of wars and battles involving ISIL
• Anbar campaign (2017)

{{Div col end}}

{{Reflist}}

{{Military intervention against ISIL}}

{{Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Anbar campaign (2015-2016)}}

Category:Conflicts in 2015

Category:Conflicts in 2016

Category:Military operations of the Iraqi Civil War in 2015

Category:Military operations of the Iraqi Civil War in 2016

Category:Military operations of the War in Iraq (2013–2017) involving the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant

Category:History of Al Anbar Governorate

Category:Military operations of the War in Iraq (2013–2017) involving the Iraqi government

Category:Military operations of the War in Iraq (2013–2017) involving the United States

Category:Military operations of the War in Iraq (2013–2017) involving Canada

Category:Military history of Ramadi

Category:Military history of Fallujah

Category:Military campaigns involving Iraq