THE TIMES OF INDIA
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2001
KABUL: Afghanistan’s hardline Taliban rulers launched a major offensive in the north of the country on Tuesday, in what their northern opponents described as the militia’s heaviest onslaught in months.
Opposition spokesman Mohammad Habeel said the attack on Kalafgan, situated 50 kilometres (32 miles) east of Taloqan in Takhar province and along a key supply route, was blunted by a strong counter attack.
“They launched their most severe and strongest offensive last night with a desire to capture Kalafgan,” Habeel told AFP by satellite telephone.
“They were able to capture some hilltops and advance, but later in our counter attack they were forced to withraw,” he said, adding that fighting was still raging in the mountainous northern province. ( AFP )