ISIS have launched an operation to conquer the south Philippines city of Marawi. According to some reports, the ISIS flag now flies over some local buildings. Local checkpoints have gone up throughout the country as snipers and regular army soldiers flood into the area where ISIS have launched their large scale operation.
https://twitter.com/KhadijaBintAli_/status/866998254621253633
The attack took place while Duterte was on a tour of Russia which he cut short in order to fly back to Philippines. There he put the entire island of Mindanao under Martial law and looks to make good on his vows to show no mercy to ISIS fighters who operate in Philippines under the name Maute or the Islamic State of Lanao.
READ MORE:Â Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte promises to eat the organs of terrorists
Some of Duterte’s team will stay behind in Russia to finalise agreements between the two governments.
JUST IN: #PresidentDuterte to cut short his trip to Russia due to Marawi situation. SFA Cayetano to stay behind to sign deals. pic.twitter.com/hI1I2oKMem
— Pia Ranada (@piaranada) May 23, 2017
The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Duran.