Iraqi forces lose ground despite heavy fights

Islamic militants continue to gain control over larger area of western and central Iraq and eastern Syria following Wednesday's fights, in spite of military and police retaliation.

After taking control of Iraq's second largest city, Mosul, and then conquering the town of Baiji, the militants also advanced into Hawija and Kirkuk, regions in central Iraq, but were pushed back by army troops and police.

Heavy fights were reported from these areas as the government forces struggle to hold their ground in front of the militants' powerful show of strength.

The army eventually managed to recapture the town of Baiji, near Mosul, although the Interior Ministry reported that many buildings had been destroyed in the process, including the court house and a police station from which militants stole the weaponry.