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Source: https://www.ft.com/content/db290a58-1847-11e7-a53d-df09f373be87
In Syria, Raqqa's Civilians Foresee Last Days of ISIS
(Financial Times-UK) Erika Solomon and Ahmad Mhidi - The "state" part of the Islamic State that has ruled in Raqqa for more than three years is evaporating. As shelling echoes from the distance, ISIS fighters remain in the city, but administrative officials are fleeing with their families to safer territory, according to Raqqa residents. Most are relocating to the province of Deir Ezzor, near the Iraqi border. One ISIS fighter reported ammunition shortages, fighters fleeing and a notable absence of the foreign fighters who once led them. It is estimated that 2,000 fighters are still in Raqqa, mostly from local tribes that pledged fealty to the group.