The European Union may send a new security mission to help stabilize Iraq after the expected recapture of Mosul from ISIL. EU foreign ministers will have a first discussion on Monday in Luxembourg and are expected to present a proposal soon. 

ISIL is thought to be on the verge of defeat in its Iraqi stronghold of Mosul and is braced for an assault against its de facto capital in Raqqa, Syria. Iraqi forces pushed deeper into Mosul's Old City on Monday, the last section of Iraq's second city still held by the militants. Commanders say the jihadists are putting up fierce resistance. Fears are growing for over 100,000 civilians believed to be trapped in the maze of narrow streets.