Iraqi forces enter outskirts of IS-held Mosul

Iraqi forces have for the first time entered the eastern outskirts of Mosul, as they attempt to drive Islamic State (IS) militants from the northern city, BBC reported.

A BBC correspondent travelling with the Counter-Terrorism Service troops says they are facing very stiff resistance.

Rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire are being directed at them, the BBC added.

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has told IS militants dug in inside Mosul, which they have held since June 2014, to “surrender or die”.

Speaking at the Qayyarah airbase south of the city on Monday, Mr Abadi declared that government forces were approaching from all angles and would “cut off the head of the snake”, BBC explained.