location: Balad
notes: New clashes erupted between a US-backed warlord alliance and Islamic militia in Balad resulting in 11 casualties. Reports suggest the fighting involved gunmen loyal to warlord Musa Sudi Yalahow, a leading member of the Alliance for the Restoration of Peace and Counter-Terrorism (ARPCT) and those of a former ally-turned-rival, Moalim Ashi (ICU).
target_text: location: Balad, fatalities: 11