US-backed SDF frees 24 fighters held by IS

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) militia battling Islamic State in Syria said yesterday it had freed 24 of its fighters held in the eastern town of Bahgouz, where the militants are making a final stand near the Iraqi border. The SDF has been trying to evacuate thousands of civilians in Baghouz before storming it or forcing the surrender of the remaining jihadists, who are mostly foreigners.