This is an interesting look at the "Mosul liberation campaign assessment | Part three: The Battle Plan – Campaign scheme of maneuverPhase 1 – Isolation: Aspects of this phase will entail the initial entry of predominately Iraqi security forces under the Nineveh Operations Command into the Nineveh province. The isolation of Mosul from external influences will be a focus for Kurdish and Iraqi security forces, along with the seizure or further isolation of IS strongholds and support zones influential to Mosul itself. The potential seizure of minor footholds along city outskirts will take place, and initial efforts to facilitate the evacuation of the civilian populace will also begin. Conditions will be largely met for the end of this phase when IS is no longer capable of infiltrating sizeable units into Mosul from outlying areas, and forces are consolidated in a position to readily begin the secondary assault phase.
Phase 2 – Assault: This phase will comprise the main series of offensive operations directed against Mosul City itself, with advancing forces expected to focus on securing key government facilities and other symbolic locations, key routes, and concertedly evacuating civilians. Conditions will be largely met for the end of this phase once IS is no longer able to maintain a cohesive overt presence in the city.
Phase 3 – Consolidation: This phase will focus on neutralizing residual IS pockets of resistance and IEDs in the city, transitioning security forces to a largely defensive security posture, restoring government functions, and a host of other tasks. Conditions will be met for the end of this phase when civilians are ready to be re-introduced to Mosul and basic services are largely restored."