Iraqi forces are set to launch an offensive to drive Islamic State militants out of Anbar province.
The start of the operation - backed by Shi'ite and Sunni forces - was announced on state television, although no further details were given.
The Iraqi prime minister has urged his country's security forces not to abandon their positions in Anbar province to Islamic State as the militant group advanced.
The warning comes amid reports IS militants had driven troops from a key military base in the province.
Troops reportedly discarded their weapons and vehicles behind to flee Anbar Operations Command after the militants apparently promised them safety if they left their positions.
It is unconfirmed whether Iraqi forces still controlled Ramadi, the capital of Anbar, after Islamic State made significant gains in recent days.
In a state television address, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi told Shiite fighters to be prepared to enter the mainly Sunni province to wrestle back control.
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