'Let's not let Mosul turn into Fallujah or Aleppo'

International Union of Muslim Scholars Chairman Yusuf al-Qaradawi has called on the Arabic and Muslim countries to extend a hand to the civilians in Mosul to protect their lives and properties during the ongoing Mosul operation initiated early on Monday which aims to clear the Iraqi city from Daesh terrorists.

Qaradawi expressed his concerns that Mosul may witness what Fallujah and Aleppo have been witnessing. "There are 3 million residents living there. The life and property security of the residents should be protected," he said.

The Mosul operation was initiated early on Monday, aiming at clearing the city from Daesh terrorists which captured the city in 2014 and overran vast swathes of territory in northern and western Iraq.

As many as 30,000 troops from 36 countries are participating in the Mosul operation that is being conducted to sweep Daesh terrorists from the Iraqi city.

Recent months have seen the army, backed by a 60-nation air coalition led by the U.S., retake much territory. Nevertheless, the terrorist group remains in control of several parts of the country, including Mosul.