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10/22/2003: "Kandahar Chronicles #32 - 21/10/2003"

Twenty five hundred seasoned Taliban troops mass in the hidden valleys of the rugged border region in preparation for an invasion of Zabul, and ultimately Kandahar provinces. Sales of motorcycles from Pakistan and cell phones from the Gulf have risen dramatically as this powerful force readies its transport and communication capabilities. Arms and ammunition dumps have been hidden throughout South East Afghanistan and millions of dollars generated from, among other things, the heroin trade, provide financing for much more. The relatively rich autumn harvest will supplement food supplies as winter approaches. Their primary target will be US and Afghan government forces, but civilians deemed “stooges” of the regime and aid workers are also on this ominous list.

Information taken from Ahmed Rashid’s excellent article in today’s Telegraph- a must read

American forces are on a hunting mission here and initiate many of the contacts with the Taliban and Al Quaeda. The idea of an invading army on Yamaha 125 two strokes might seem a little unusual considering the punishing arsenal at the disposal of the Coalition forces. US troops would welcome any opportunity to deal with these warriors in a concentrated formation but that is unlikely to happen. Instead, they could likely face an intense, sustained series of high-speed attacks on relatively isolated positions. The most potent military machine in history, trained and armed to a razors edge, locked in deadly combat with tough, determined tribesmen. A vicious, bloody game of cat and mouse played out on ancient, barren terrain.

Civilians, aid workers, police and military once again prepare to tighten up security measures. It seems that we’ve tightened up security so many times there’s little else to do except sit in our bunkers and eat tinned food. We watch closely to see how this latest development unfolds. Aid agencies review their own emergency plans as well as work with other organizations to coordinate an effective response in case of a sudden deterioration in the situation within the city or surrounding area. These plans are independent of the procedures put in place by Coalition and Afghan Government forces, and will hopefully allow aid personnel to continue their programs in a safer, though restricted manner.

Replies: 1 Comment

The onset of winter seems an odd time to plan action of the sort mentioned in your report Carlos. Tell me, is this a tactical error or, more likely, a well planned initiative by the Taliban to take advantage of the harsh mountain conditions which the Yanks would no doubt find harsh going?

OK MSF Man, its time for me to venture out into my own harsh environment and go chasing the vermin of my desire. All for now from the not so sunny climes of the Border region.

Voles rule!

scallywag said @ 10/22/2003 05:01 PM EST