Iraq has celebrated the anniversary of its costly victory over the Islamic State group. The government declared victory last December after a three-year war that killed tens of thousands of Iraqis and forced hundreds of thousands from their homes. The Islamic State has lost nearly all the territory it once held. But its forces continue to carry out attacks on Iraqi targets. The government declared Monday a national holiday. Security stations in Baghdad, were covered with Iraqi flags and balloons, as security forces walked the streets, playing patriotic music. As part of the celebrations, the government plans to reopen parts of Baghdad’s well-guarded Green Zone to the public. Officials hope the move will calm protests against corruption and poor public services. The Green Zone is home to major government offices and foreign embassies.