The second phase of the Iraqi offensive to reclaim Mosul from ISIL militants has begun as security forces close in on the extremist-held city from three directions.<br /><br /> The battle for the jihadist’s last major stronghold in Iraq has raged since it began in October, and looked to have reached a stalemate before advances were made in the city’s eastern districts.<br /><br /> Iraqi forces have launched the second phase of Mosul offensive against Islamic State: https://t.co/jlBBUEWF2D pic.twitter.com/laPSfNbmBX— Reuters Top News (@Reuters) December 29, 2016<br /> <br /><br /> As the largest ground operation since the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq continues,civilians trapped and displaced by fighting remain the chief concern.<br /><br /> One spoke of a “tragic” situation unfolding for those unable to escape the bloody fighting.<br /><br /> “ISIL destroyed our lives,” he said. “There is no life in Mosul, no fuel, no food, there is nothing left.”<br /><br /> Breaking<br />Iraqi Army dig graves of Sunnis ppl ,come out dead & dragged their bodies in Street<br />sectarian government #Mosul#Warcrimes#IRAQ pic.twitter.com/0H25VEJJbb— #IRAQ شمرية العراق (@moonnor27) December 29, 2016<br /> <br /><br /> Another civilian spoke of the destruction and death caused by the fierce battle.<br /><br /> “Three houses in our neighbourhood were destroyed after they were hit by mortars, three people were killed,” he said.<br /><br /> “One of my children was injured by mortar blasts. We left our cars and our house behind us. All we have left is the clothes on our backs.”<br /><br /> Some one hundred and twenty thousand have fled Mosul since the operation began in October.<br /><br /> Aid organisations have warned that Iraq is on the verge of an unparalleled humanitarian crisis, as the city’s residents wait in camps to see what will become of their home.<br />
