An operation to recapture Iraq's second largest city Mosul from Islamic State terrorists has entered its final phase. <br/><br/>The Iraqi military launched the offensive against the terrorist group in the Old City last month and is advancing carefully to avoid civilian casualties. <br/><br/>The terrorists are putting up fierce resistance and have been using civilians as human shields. Iraqi troops have regained control of most parts of Mosul, which has been under the IS control for the past 3 years. It was their largest stronghold in the country. <br/><br/>Meanwhile, at least 15 people were killed in the latest assaults across Iraq.