Iraqi PM warns Islamic State to 'surrender or die' in Mosul

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Iraq's prime minister has warned so-called Islamic State to "surrender or die" as government troops close in on Mosul.

Haider al-Abadi said on state TV: "They have no choice. Either they surrender or they die."

Haider al-Abadi Credit: Reuters

Iraqi special forces are now about half a mile away from Mosul's eastern edge and preparing to enter the besieged city.

It is not clear when the final offensive to recapture the city will take place.

Mr al-Abadi, also the commander-in-chief of the Iraqi armed forces, added: "We will close in on Daesh [IS] from all angles and God willing we will cut the snake's head.

"They will have no way out and no way to escape."