First Battle of Tikrit

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First Battle of Tikrit took place in June 2014, marking a significant event during the Iraqi Civil War (2014–2017). This battle was primarily between the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and the Iraqi Government forces, with the city of Tikrit, located in the Salahuddin province, being the focal point of the conflict. The battle is notable for its strategic importance, as Tikrit is the hometown of the former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein and is situated on the road to the Iraqi capital, Baghdad.

Background

The rise of ISIL in Iraq was a rapid and alarming development. In early 2014, ISIL managed to gain control of several territories in Iraq, exploiting the political instability and sectarian tensions within the country. The group's advance towards Tikrit came after their seizure of Mosul, Iraq's second-largest city, which fell into ISIL hands in June 2014. The fall of Mosul was a significant blow to the Iraqi government, leading to a collapse of military and police forces in the region.

The Battle

The First Battle of Tikrit commenced when ISIL militants attacked the city, facing little resistance from the Iraqi Army, which retreated from the area. The militants quickly took control of the city, including key government buildings and military bases. The capture of Tikrit was part of ISIL's broader strategy to establish a caliphate across Iraq and Syria.

Following the initial capture, the Iraqi government attempted to retake the city. Several counter-offensives were launched, involving airstrikes and ground forces. However, these efforts were largely unsuccessful in the early stages of the battle, with ISIL managing to maintain control over Tikrit.

Aftermath

The First Battle of Tikrit set the stage for a prolonged conflict in the region. It highlighted the weaknesses of the Iraqi military and the significant threat posed by ISIL. The battle also led to a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of residents fleeing the city to escape the violence.

The city of Tikrit would remain under ISIL control until the Second Battle of Tikrit in March 2015, when it was finally recaptured by Iraqi forces, supported by Popular Mobilization Forces and a coalition of international allies. The recapture of Tikrit was seen as a turning point in the Iraqi government's fight against ISIL, demonstrating the possibility of reclaiming territories held by the militants.

Legacy

The First Battle of Tikrit is remembered as a critical moment in the Iraqi Civil War, illustrating the rapid gains made by ISIL and the challenges faced by the Iraqi government in countering the jihadist threat. The battle also underscored the importance of international cooperation and local militia support in combating ISIL.