Iraqi forces launch operation at last IS-held enclave in Mosul

The Iraqi air force has dropped leaflets urging residents in the last IS-held enclave in Mosul to flee, as Iraqi troops launch an operation to capture it.

Iraqi armed forces have launched an operation to capture the Islamic State-held enclave in Mosul. (AAP)

Iraqi armed forces have launched an operation to capture the last Islamic State-held enclave in Mosul, according to a military statement.

The Iraqi air force dropped leaflets on Friday urging residents in the enclave to flee, raising fears among humanitarian groups for the safety of desperate civilians there.

The enclave covers mainly the Old City centre and three adjacent districts alongside the western bank of the Tigris river.