SRSG Kubiš: "Liberation of Tal Afar one more nail in Daesh's coffin

“Coming weeks after the liberation of Mosul, this great victory in Tal Afar represents another major defeat for Daesh and terrorism and one more nail in the coffin of the terrorist group,” Mr. Kubiš said.

“As we join the Iraqis in celebrating that the Iraqi flag is once again proudly flying high in the heart of the liberated Tal Afar we also remember all those who have lost their lives or who have suffered tremendously from Daesh’s terrorism. Without their sacrifices and without the unity of the people, in particular the Turkmen component in Tal Afar, behind their security forces this latest victory would not have been swift and decisive."

The Special Representative commended the Iraqi security forces for the extraordinary efforts they have made to save and protect lives of civilians, urged that security and services be swiftly restored.

"As with other areas liberated from Daesh, the immediate priority is for accelerated stabilization efforts to enable the civilians who have fled the fighting to voluntarily and safely return to their homes and restart their lives, to be followed by reconstruction," he said.

In parallel, national and social reconciliation form the tools to achieve sustainable peace for the future generations.  Mr. Kubiš said the United Nations will continue to support Iraq in its drive to liberate remaining territory under Daesh control and in a political process to achieve reconciliation.