Iraqi forces advance on Mosul after wave of suicide attacks

Iraqi forces have pushed into a town near Mosul after a wave of militant attacks in and around the northern city of Kirkuk set off more than 24 hours of heavy clashes, with ongoing skirmishes in some areas.

US Defence Secretary Ash Carter meanwhile arrived in Baghdad on an unannounced visit to meet with Iraqi commanders to discuss the offensive to retake Mosul, which the US is supporting with air strikes and advisers on the ground.