US forces have launched a major military operation in southern Afghanistan in the first big push to drive the Taliban out of a key stronghold since Barack Obama became US president.
Four thousand marines, backed by Nato aircraft and a 650-strong Afghan force, are moving into towns in Helmand province, where the Taliban has been intensifying its challenge to the Kabul government and allied forces.
The move comes ahead of Afghan presidential elections planned for August 20 and US and Nato commanders have said they intend to seize Taliban-held territory in the south in time for the polls.
PHOTO CAPTION
US soldiers in eastern Afghanistan in April 2009.
Agencies