Islamic State driven out of its ‘capital’

US-backed alliance captures Raqqa after five-month battle in symbolic blow to ‘caliphate’

Syrian Democratic Forces fighter plants their flag at the centre of Raqqa
(Image credit: Bulent Kilic/AFP/Getty Images)

American-backed forces have captured the self-declared capital of Islamic State, Raqqa, a major blow for the militant group as it fights for survival on all sides.

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed militia of Syrian Kurds and Arabs, confirmed yesterday it had taken control of the northern Syrian city, which has been under IS control for over three years, after months of fierce fighting.

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