![Iraqi forces search the area in Tarmiyah, 35 kilometres (20 miles) north of Baghdad on February 20, 2021, following clashes with Islamic State group fighters. Iraqi security forces clashed with the Islamic State group north of Baghdad, leaving at least five jihadists and two security personnel dead. A joint force of army troops and state-sponsored tribal fighters raided an IS hideout in the leafy plains of Tarmiyah, according to a statement from the military. / AFP / AHMAD AL-RUBAYE](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/M64JJHQ26PLGFJMR23COFYLYHA.jpg?smart=true&auth=7e9879cdd44d5b11121f12a3104444e6b36247b841503bbe9f370496244fe339&width=400&height=225)
In this file photo taken before the attack, Iraqi forces patrol the town of Tarmiyah, near Balad Air Base. AFP
In this file photo taken before the attack, Iraqi forces patrol the town of Tarmiyah, near Balad Air Base. AFP
Rockets hit Iraqi military base hosting US contractors
American contractors are stationed at the base working on Iraq's F-16 fighter jet programme