"Iraqi security forces have won great victories against ISIL terrorists in Salaheddin province. The terrorists suffered great losses and a large number of them are fleeing the province," Lt-Gen Sabah al-Fatlawi said.

Scores of terrorists were killed in heavy battles with the army forces in Tikrit, al-Fatlawi added.

The head of the Samarra Special Operation Command added that Iraqi forces pushed ISIL terrorists out of most parts of Tikrit, retaking full control of a major military base in Salaheddin province.

Iraqi forces have gained the upper hand against the ISIL terrorists and are advancing on the city of Tikrit, a provincial official said.

A security source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that a senior member of the ISIL terrorist group was also killed in the northern city of Kirkuk.

RA/NJF