Background Battle of Hit (2016)

on 19 february, revealed next target of iraqi operations in anbar province going town of hīt, estimated 12,000 civilians , 300–400 isil militants in town, , many more isil militants in surrounding area. on 23 february, iraqi government deployed reinforcements al asad airbase near hīt, in preparation future offensive recapture both kabisa , hīt district isil. on same day, clashes erupted between local sunni tribesmen , isil forces in hīt district. on next day, us-led coalition destroyed isil headquarters in hīt , kabisa, killing multiple isil militants. on 28 february, iraqi government warned civilians in kabisa , hīt district leave within 48 hours, avoid imminent offensive recapture areas. on 8 march, isil forces abandoned zankourah district, without resistance against iraqi government fighters.