by Jessica Lewis
There are indications that ISIS is about to launch into a new offensive in Iraq. ISIS published photos of military parades through the streets of Mosul and reportedly Hawija as well. These parades may be a demonstration force to reinforce their control of these urban centers. They may also be a prelude to ISIS troop movements, and it is important to anticipate where ISIS may deploy these forces forward. Meanwhile, ISIS renewed the use of suicide bombers in the vicinity of Baghdad. These attacks are demonstrations that ISIS has uncommitted forces in the Baghdad Belts that may be brought to bear in new offensives.
ISIS’s offensive has not culminated, and the ISIS campaign for Iraq is not over. Rather, as Ramadan approaches, their main offensive is likely imminent.