The battle for Tikrit is in the critical stage for the Iraqi Army, as the presence of the Islamic State just north of Baghdad has created apprehension for the Iraqi Government. The Iraqi Army attempted to breakthrough the Islamic State frontline for the 3rd time this morning; however, the attack was repelled, which forced the army to retreat south. According to a source, the majority of clashes have taken place near the University of Tikrit, one of the largest universities in Iraq. Clashes are ongoing, with the Iraqi Army preparing to make its 4th infiltration attempt.
The Iraqi Army offensive comes two days after the liberation of the Mosul Dam and one week after the strategic capture of the Haditha Dam. Tikrit is the ancestral home of former Iraqi President, Saddam Hussein, and one of the most densely populated cities in Iraq. The Islamic State is deeply entrenched in Tikrit, an area where they have received much support from tribes outside of the city.
