First Battle of Tikrit

File:IAILogo.png

Error creating thumbnail:

Error creating thumbnail:

Error creating thumbnail:

First Battle of Tikrit

The First Battle of Tikrit was a military engagement that took place during the Iraqi Civil War (2014–2017). The battle occurred between 26 June and 15 July 2014, as part of the broader conflict involving the ISIL and the Iraqi government.

Background

The Iraqi Civil War (2014–2017) was marked by the rapid territorial gains of ISIL, a jihadist militant group that emerged from the remnants of al-Qaeda in Iraq. In June 2014, ISIL launched a major offensive in northern Iraq, capturing the city of Mosul and advancing towards other key locations, including Tikrit, the hometown of former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein.

Prelude

Following the fall of Mosul, ISIL forces moved swiftly southward, capturing several towns and cities along the way. The Iraqi government, led by Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, was caught off guard by the speed and ferocity of the ISIL advance. Tikrit, a strategic city located on the Tigris River, became a focal point for both ISIL and Iraqi forces.

The Battle

The battle for Tikrit began on 26 June 2014, when ISIL fighters launched an assault on the city. The Iraqi military, along with local police forces, attempted to defend Tikrit but faced significant challenges due to the lack of coordination and the demoralization of troops following the fall of Mosul.

ISIL employed a combination of guerrilla tactics, including the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), snipers, and suicide bombers, to weaken the Iraqi defenses. The group also capitalized on the sectarian tensions within Iraq, gaining support from some Sunni tribes in the region.

Despite several attempts by the Iraqi military to retake the city, including airstrikes and ground assaults, ISIL maintained control over Tikrit. The battle concluded on 15 July 2014, with ISIL firmly in control of the city.

Aftermath

The fall of Tikrit to ISIL was a significant blow to the Iraqi government and highlighted the challenges faced by the Iraqi military in combating the insurgency. The loss of Tikrit also underscored the need for international assistance, leading to increased involvement by the United States and other coalition partners in the fight against ISIL.

The city remained under ISIL control until the Second Battle of Tikrit in March 2015, when Iraqi forces, supported by Popular Mobilization Forces and international coalition airstrikes, successfully recaptured the city.

Also see

• Iraqi Civil War (2014–2017)
• Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
• Second Battle of Tikrit
• Mosul offensive (June 2014)
• Nouri al-Maliki