IRAQ FALLUJAH

The Iraqi army has launched a major assault on the central city of Fallujah to recapture it from the self-proclaimed Islamic State.There's concern for tens of thousands of civilians who remain trapped as Iraqi forces, under air cover from the international coalition, launch what Iraq calls 'the second phase' to take the I-S stronghold.

Smoke billows through the air during an offensive by Iraqi military forces into Fallujah Source: AAP

MICHELLE CHEN REPORTS