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US-backed Syrian fighters clear remnants in war-ravaged Raqqa

A day after declaring Raqqa under their control, US-backed Syrian militia say clearing operations are still underway in the city. Once seen as ISIL’s de facto capital, the city is a complete shell of its former self, having been pummeled by coalition airstrikes for months. While its thought a few ISIL militants may still be hiding in the city, the focus of Syrian Democratic Forces is now expected to turn to Syria’s eastern province of Deir al-Zor – the last major bastion of ISIL in Syria. The Syrian army backed by Russia and Iran is also closing in on the group which has seen its territory steadily shrink since the summer. In other news, a Syrian army general has reportedly died in Deir al-Zor. Pro-government media said Major General Issam Zahreddine was killed by a land mine.