LASHKARGAH (SW): Ever since the US forces in Afghanistan resumed combat operations against the rebels, an evident decline in the Taliban’s activities has been noted in the southern Helmand province.
Maj. Gen. Mohammad Moin Faqir, Commander of the Afghan National Army (ANA)’s 215-Corps told Salam Watandar that the Taliban’s offensives have notably fallen. He added that the US forces have conducted a number of aerial operations lately that killed a number of Taliban rebels. As per his views, the American airpower can be credited for 80 percent of the successful actions against the militants.
“There has been excellent coordination between the Afghan and the US forces”, he said while recalling clean-up operations in Reg, Nahr-e-Siraj and Sangin districts. The ANA commander went on to say that the Afghan Air Force (AAF) too is busy in these offensives against the Taliban. He hoped security situation would improve for good in restive Marja and Sangin districts.
Talking to Salam Watandar, Commander of the US forces in Helmand, Andrew Rohling said that the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) have improved to a great extent. He noted that some 25, 000 strong ANSF are present in the province to ensure peace and stability. He stressed that the US forces would be available to assist the ANSF whenever needed.
“We are assisting the Afghan forces with aerial support, this is going to last for many years to come”, he said.
In the skies of Helmand, the US’s F-16 and B-52 bombers fly on quite regular basis scaring the rebels away. Just last week, at least 70 rebels were killed in seven air strikes.
ENDS
