Iraqi forces shell IS positions near Mosul
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BAGHDAD -- Iraqi special forces have begun shelling Islamic State positions near Mosul in the latest phase of a massive operation to retake the militant-held city.
Maj. Gen. Haider al-Obeidi says the shelling began early on Monday northwest of Bartella, a historically Christian town 15 kilometers to the east of Mosul. Iraqi special forces retook Bartella last week.
