WASHINGTON — The U.S. envoy for the international coalition fighting the Islamic State militants says thousands of airstrikes have blunted the militants' tactical momentum in Iraq.
Retired Marine Gen. John Allen told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday that while the Islamic State group remains a substantial foe, more than 2,500 airstrikes by the U.S. and coalition forces have degraded its leadership, hampered its logistical capabilities and deprived it of sanctuary in Iraq. He told the committee members the militants have lost half their leadership based in Iraq and are no longer able to assemble, move and communicate as an effective force.
Allan said, "Any aura of the invincibility of ISIL has been shattered."
