Iraqi forces have fully cleared the city of Fallujah after it was held by the Islamic State, a member of the Iraqi military told the Associated Press.
The Iraqi Security Forces, aided by U.S. airstrikes and advisors, began the operation to retake the city about a month ago.
“From the center of al-Julan neighborhood, we congratulate the Iraqi people and the commander in chief … and declare that the Fallujah fight is over,” Lt. Gen. Abdul-Wahab al-Saadi reportedly said.
Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi reportedly declared victory in Fallujah more than a week ago after Iraqi forces seized a government complex, promising an end to the fight within hours, while it actually stretched on for several days.
The Pentagon did not immediately provide any comment on the status of the city.
The Islamic State has controlled the city for more than two years, since early 2014. In cities previously held by the terrorist group, Iraqi forces have had to spend months clearing improvised explosive devices and other booby traps that the Islamic State set up around the city.
The Iraqi soldier said that forces are beginning to clear the city of bombs. It is unclear when the thousands of displaced civilians will be able to start returning.
Fallujah was also a key city during the Iraq War in 2004, where more than 100 American troops died.
