Philippines violence: 11 soldiers killed in army operation in Marawi

In Philippine, at least 11 soldiers and 31 militants had been killed, as the army continued its operation in Marawi.

A military spokesman said that foreign fighters believed to be linked to Islamic State terror group are among those killed in a southern Philippine city. It is not clear if any civilians are among the dead.President Duterte imposed martial law in Mindanao on Tuesday in response to the



violence. The military has been conducting air strikes in Marawi, on Mindanao island, after it was overrun by terrorists. The region is a stronghold for the local Maute group, which has pledged allegiance to IS. 

President Duterte said the presence of foreign fighters was proof that IS had gained a foothold on Mindanao. Thousands of residents have fled from the city.