The BBC reveals that a secret deal in mid-October allowed hundreds of ISIL fighters and their families, including some of their "most notorious members", escape from Raqqa in a convoy that was between 6 to 7 km long. The United States government confirms that the deal with ISIL was made and that the evacuations took place. The possibility of a deal was previously reported as early as October 14. (BBC)(Rudaw)(The Guardian)
The death toll from the earthquake in Iraq and Iran exceeds 400 with over 7,000 injured. The death toll is expected to rise further in coming days. (Washington Post)