Four Afghan forces died in the fight, and 30 Taliban were killed. With guidance from their American advisers, Afghan commandos launched the initial assaults, supported by Afghan aircraft. The Afghan National Army forces followed, clearing the area, and National Police units moved in to hold the ground, enabling local political leaders to retake the government. “It’s different now because they understand now it’s their responsibility,” said Marine Lt. Col. Ryan Benson, an adviser for the Afghan army. And he said he’ll be watching the Taliban’s reaction when fighters increasingly see they’re being targeted by Afghan aircraft and the number of Afghan commandos — who have been their toughest enemy — has doubled.

Source: National Post March 24, 2018 04:46 UTC