Islamic State (IS) has reportedly released 200 Yazidis who were being held in northern Iraq, Kurdish security officials said.
General Hiwa Abdullah said that most of the 216 prisoners, including 40 children, were in poor health and showed signs of abuse, reported the BBC.
The Yazidis were targeted by the terror group last year as they swept through Iraq, killing and abducting thousands.
Reports said that many of the prisoners were "too exhausted and disoriented" to speak.
The news came as Iraqi troops claimed that they were gaining ground in a fresh offensive against IS in Anbar province.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app