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Iraqi forces reach jihadist-besieged town of Amerli

Iraqi forces have broken through the Islamic State-besieged town of Amerli where thousands of people were trapped for over two months, according to news agency AFP.

Security spokesman Lieutenant General Qassem Atta told AFP: "Our forces entered Amerli and broke the siege".

RAF transport planes took part in a humanitarian air drop to the town last night, Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said.

US aircraft also launched airstrikes against IS fighters near the besieged town.

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Islamic State fighter says US is fighting 'Islamic army'

An Islamic State fighter who speaks with a British accent warns the US it is now fighting an "Islamic army" before apparently beheading US journalist James Foley.

The militant accuses the US of being at the "forefront of aggression towards the Islamic State".

He warns President Obama any attempts to "deny Muslims their rights of living in safety under the Islamic caliphate will result in the bloodshed of your people.”

"You're no longer fighting an insurgency. We are an Islamic army," he says.

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