NPR

PHOTOS: In Marawi, A Siege Threatens To Grind Into Stalemate

Even as Philippine authorities report progress, large sections of the southern city remain under the control of ISIS-linked militants — who officials now believe have been planning for this moment.
Philippine army Scout Rangers crouch in a classroom during a mission to flush out militant snipers in Marawi on Tuesday. Using these snipers, human shields and their knowledge of the city, the ISIS-linked militants have continued to maintain their grasp on parts of the city. / NOEL CELIS / Getty Images

After more than two weeks of bloodshed, brutality and the creeping danger of starvation, Marawi remains a city under siege. Philippine authorities are reckoning with a mounting death toll — which by many media counts is more than 170 people — as well as the looming threat that the siege might become a bloody stalemate.

The alliance of ISIS-linked militant groups that on May 23 continues to exercise control over the urban center — or about 10 percent. And he says the militants had long prepared for this fight by stockpiling supplies and weapons in mosques, schools and other civilian sites, as well as in a network of tunnels.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR6 min read
'Struggle, Struggle, Struggle.' What New And Expecting Mothers Are Facing In Gaza
Women who are pregnant or who have recently given birth in Gaza face serious challenges amid daily airstrikes, continued ground fighting, high rates of disease and a growing lack of food and water.
NPR4 min readAmerican Government
California Judge Recommends Disbarment Of Pro-Trump Attorney John Eastman
A California judge found that attorney John Eastman committed "exceptionally serious ethical violations" in his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election and recommended disbarment.
NPR2 min read
What We Know And Don't Know About Baltimore's Key Bridge Collapse
Eight construction workers are thought to have fallen into the bridge at the time of the collision. Six are still unaccounted for and presumed to be dead, authorties said.

Related Books & Audiobooks