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US to extend Libya operation for another month

September 30, 2016 at 12:02 pm

Daesh militants wave their flag [REUTERS/Stringer/File Photo]

United States President Barack Obama will extend the US air campaign in Libya against Daesh militants for a third consecutive month.

Initially supposed to last a few weeks, AFRICOM, the US’ Africa command, has initiated 175 airstrikes against Daesh since last week as part of its aerial campaign.

The US Air Force launched its air campaign last month in Sirte at the behest of the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) who have been fighting the militants.

The extension comes as an estimated 1,000 Daesh fighters have continued to maintain their hold of Sirte and keep GNA forces at bay despite numerous gains and US air support.