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| Afghanistan |
| Isaf to Launch Military Offensive in Helmand |
| 2011-01-11 |
| [Tolo News] A new military operation named "Omid 5" will be conducted in turbulent southern Helmand province, Isaf said on Monday. The operation is due to begin in a few weeks and it will be led by Afghan forces, Josef Blotz, Isaf's Spokesperson, said. The operation will be focused in Greshk district to ensure security and clear the district of roadside mines. Mr Blotz said after the offensive comes to an end a new military base will be made in Greshk district to keep it under control. Foreign military officials said it's expected that a massive number of US marines would take part in the operation. "The operation is to be conducted by the marines alongside with other marines in Helmand," Blotz said. Isaf once again expressed its support of Afghan government's peace efforts. Blotz said peace efforts could work to decrease violence in Afghanistan. "Taliban fighters are demonstrating they are tired of killing their fellow Afghans and are expressing confidence in the grinding of the peace processor. They are coming forward in a few provinces all around the country to renounce violence and return home with honour and dignity," he said. Helmand, Taliban's religious and powerful stronghold in southern Afghanistan, has long been the scene of harsh bad boy attacks since the war began in 2001. |
| Posted by:Fred |