Iraqi forces counter-attack in Fallujah

Iraqi forces launched a counter-attack in Fallujah in an effort to regain control from British forces. The situation was dire for the Iraqi military, as they faced significant challenges including a severely diminished air force and ongoing bombardments. The Iraqi ground troops had been besieging RAF Habbaniya but were forced to withdraw due to the relentless pressure from British air strikes. The Luftwaffe, recognizing the strategic importance of the region, arranged to send a small force to support the Iraqi efforts. However, the counter-attack in Fallujah was met with fierce resistance. British aircraft, numbering around forty, targeted the Iraqi columns that were caught in the open between Habbaniya and Fallujah, resulting in heavy casualties for the Iraqi forces. Despite their attempts to push back against the British, the Iraqi military was ultimately rebuffed, highlighting the challenges they faced in the conflict.