International Security Assistance Force - Afghanistan
Kabul, Afghanistan - Afghan and International Security Assistance Forces have launched the next phase of operations to target and clear Taliban from the area around Tarin Kowt in Uruzgan province in order to consolidate an enduring security presence in the area.
Soldiers from the Afghan national army and ISAF are involved in the operation 'Spin Ghar,' which began today, to identify Taliban forces and drive them out of their strongholds.
The operation's key objective is to create a secure environment, free of Taliban, for the citizen of Uruzgan and to support the provincial government and its new governor in their efforts to bring vital reconstruction and development projects to the province.
The operation is being conducted in consultation with local leaders and Gov. Hamdam and has the support of the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
"Operation Spin Ghar is designed to consolidate security around Tarin Kowt and expand the influence of the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. This joint operation will enable the ANSF and ISAF to have freedom of movement in the area around Tarin Kowt by pushing the Taliban out," said an ISAF spokesman Wing Commander Antony McCord. "This will set the conditions for an enduring presence of the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and set the conditions for long term reconstruction and development. It is crucial that the Taliban are prevented from terrorising the local people so that they can go about their daily lives without fear of intimidation. The operation is part of a series of operations forming a well developed plan to provide protection and security for the people of Uruzgan."