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.
Islamic State militants have taken full control of the Iraqi city of Ramadi, according to reports.
"Ramadi has fallen," Muhannad Haimour, a spokesman for the governor of Anbar province, is quoted as saying by the Associated Press.
"The city was completely taken. ... It was a gradual deterioration. The military is fleeing."
Earlier, an Islamic State message claimed the group had seized the city after Iraqi forces fled.
The Iraqi prime minister had made a desperate appeal to his forces not to abandon their posts amid the group's advance.
The Democratic presidential candidate may also have shown his cards on his choice of running mate.
The US president also shared a post on Twitter accusing Dr Anthony Fauci of misleading the public over hydroxychloroquine.
Fears over an impending second wave of coronavirus dominates Wednesday’s front pages.