Islamic State took U.S.-supplied tanks, vehicles after Iraqi forces fled Ramadi

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2015/may/19/islamic-state-took-us-supplied-tanks-after-iraqi-f/

Al Qaeda fighters wave flags as they patrol the streets in a commandeered Iraqi military vehicle in Fallujah, Iraq, March 20, 2014. (Associated Press)

 By Douglas Ernst - The Washington Times - Tuesday, May 19, 2015

The loss of Ramadi by Iraqi security forces to the Islamic State group has put U.S.-supplied tanks and other vehicles into the terrorist organization’s possession.

Iraqi troops left behind “dozens of U.S. military vehicles, including tanks, armored personnel carriers and artillery pieces,” as they fled the city, The Associated Press reported Tuesday.

“We will see episodic, temporary successes, but again these typically don’t materialize into long-term gains,” Brig. Gen. Thomas Weidley, chief of staff of the Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve, said Friday.

Naeem al-Gauoud, a Sunni tribal leader, told AP on Monday that “any group” is welcome to clear out the Islamic State group, “including Shiite militias.”

Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, issued a written statement Monday that suggested no changes were forthcoming in the aftermath of Ramadi’s fall.

“Setbacks are regrettable but not uncommon in warfare. Much effort will now be required to reclaim the city,” he said, AP reported.

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