Iraqi security forces are progressing as planned in their battle to recapture Mosul from the Islamic State group. A US general said this today, adding that the fighting will get tougher as the forces approach the city center. <br/>'<br/>The US-led coalition has been providing training and continual air support for Iraqi security forces as they fight to remove IS from the nation. Some of the bloodiest battles have taken place in Mosul since operations began there in October.<br/><br/>The Iraqis have recaptured the eastern side of the former IS bastion and are making inroads into the more densely populated west.'<br/>'<br/>Army Lieutenant General Stephen Townsend, who heads the anti-IS coalition, this week said about 2,000 jihadists remain in and around western Mosul.'