Just south of Baghdad, Iraqi forces are on patrol in a virtual ghost town.
They reclaimed the town after days of fierce fighting, in an operation that is part of a larger effort by Iraqi security forces to prevent Islamic State militants from reaching Baghdad.
(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) UNIDENTIFIED ARMY OFFICER, SAYING:
"Fierce fighting took place, but in the end terrorism was defeated and we captured the bridge. It was very tough. The Iraqi forces have been fighting for control several months. Now our forces are deployed over the bridge, on its left and right sides and the situation is very good, God willing."
Security officials say Islamic State militants fled to nearby villages and are still launching attacks.
Islamic State fighters have threatened to march on Baghdad, home to special forces and thousands of Shi'ite militias expected to put up fierce resistance if the capital comes under threat.
