article_snippet: In the past few days, forces progressed roughly 50 miles (80 kilometers) down one road toward the city and, by Monday, were about a mile from Syria center.
article_snippet: Also assisting is Iran, which has provided advisers, weapons and ammunition to the Iraqi government.
article_snippet: According to the Pentagon, there may be Iranians operating heavy artillery and rocket launchers as well.
article_snippet: CNN's Jason Hanna contributed to this report from Atlanta.
highlights_snippet: A major offensive for the city was launched just over a week ago .
  