Fighting has broken out in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk after suspected ISIL gunmen attacked several buildings, including a police compound and power station. <br /><br /> Officials say at least eight security personnel have been killed. <br /><br /> Local TV broadcast images showing open gun battles in the oil rich city, which was also rocked by multiple blasts. <br /><br /> The attack in Kirkuk comes as Iraqi pro-government forces make a major push to drive ISIL out of the country’s second-largest city Mosul. <br /><br /> That offensive is reported to be progressing faster than planned after the fall of Bartella, some 15 kilometres from the city. Mosul is ISIL’s last main stronghold in Iraq.<br /><br /> Backed by extensive coalition air power, the push to recapture Mosul is expected to become the biggest battle fought in Iraq since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion.<br />
