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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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RAF planes take part in besieged Iraqi town air drop

RAF transport planes have taken part in a humanitarian air drop to the Iraqi town of Amirli, Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said.

The RAF dropped 14 tonnes of food and water for a Shia population there.

A file picture of RAF C-130J Hercules. Credit: An RAF C-130J (Hercules)

The Hercules aircraft helped an international effort to resupply the town which has been under siege by Islamic State (IS) militants for nearly two months.

"We have been putting in humanitarian aid, I can confirm that last night I authorised two Hercules to participate in the big aid drop on Amirli, a town that's been under siege for nearly two months," Mr Fallon told Sky News.

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Iraqi forces reach jihadist-besieged town of Amerli

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