The Foreign Secretary Phillip Hammond has ruled out any kind of deal with Syria's President Assad...

Kurdistan's elite counterterrorism group, alongside Peshmerga forces, is on a mission to reclaim land from IS militants. The militants have fortified their positions, posing significant challenges to the Kurdish forces, who lack advanced weaponry and support. Despite these challenges, the Kurds have made significant territorial gains, navigating mines and capturing strategic points. The battle remains difficult, with IS employing tactics like roadside bombs and entrenched positions. The Kurds acknowledge the need for more support to sustain their efforts against a well-armed adversary.

What is the primary objective of the Kurdish counterterrorism group?

• To evacuate civilians from conflict zones

• To reclaim land and secure strategic areas

• To negotiate peace with IS militants

• To establish a new government

What tactic have IS militants used to slow down the Kurdish advance?

• Using aerial attacks

• Planting roadside bombs

• Negotiating ceasefires

• Recruiting more soldiers

Why do the Kurdish forces find it difficult to match IS militants in battle?

• Limited knowledge of the terrain

• Poor training of soldiers

• Inferior weaponry and resources

• Lack of international support

What indicates that IS militants intended to stay in the region for the long term?

• Building schools and hospitals

• Continuous negotiations with Kurds

• Established deep trenches and outposts

• Frequent retreats

What has been the result of the Kurdish forces' efforts so far?

• Withdrawal from the region

• Stalemate with no progress

• Significant territorial gains

• Complete defeat of IS militants