FRONTLINE REPORT: Iraqi army nearing Nouri Mosque in Mosul, where ISIS declared 'caliphate'

Iraqi advancing troops have their eyes on controlling this mosque where ISIS leader Abu Bakir al-Baghdadi first introduced himself as caliph of the so-called "Islamic State."

Coalition leaders now believe Baghdadi has fled from population centers like Mosul and Raqqa, but ISIS loyalists remain, willing to fight until the death.

The militants have used mosques as hideouts against the Iraqi forces, while also exploiting civilians as human shields.
 
Snipers and the tight alleys in the Old City have also made retaking the land incremental. But the Iraqi forces say are progressing.