The Advance Toward Mosul Begins

After months of intensive preparations, the battle of Mosul is fast approaching. For much of the past year, Iraqi security forces have been streaming north and working to put the necessary logistics into place in anticipation of the offensive. Iraqi army Chief of Staff Gen. Othman al-Ghanmi announced on Oct. 13 that the preparations are complete, and Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi gave the order to launch the offensive early Oct. 17. A look at the situation around Mosul and the forces arrayed for battle can offer insight into what will come next....