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| US Led Coalition Launches Military Attacks on Afghanistan |
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MON, OCT 08, 2001
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The US and British military action has begun in Afghanistan. The first explosions could be heard about 8:57 pm local time in Kabul after nightfall. Five large explosions shook the city, followed by the sounds of anti-aiircraft fire. US President George W Bush said forces are taking "targeted actions" against Taliban military capabilities and the al-Qaida network of alleged terrorist mastermind Osama bin Laden.
A variety of military aircraft are being used, including long range B2, B1 and B52 bombers. The air attacks are expected to be substantial and continue until at least dawn. There are some reports that carpet-style bombing attacks will also be included in the campaign. The air attacks are expected to continue in waves throughout the night. Military officials said they were targeting Taliban air defense operations and Taliban aircraft.
British Prime Minister Tony Blair said on Sunday that British submarines had also launched missiles at Afghanistan.
Local officials in Islamabad said that Pakistan airspace was used in the US-led military strikes against Afghanistan. There are no reports yet of ground troops entering the country.
But according to a US military commander at a military briefing at the Pentagon a short while ago, the US forces are only in the early stages of combat operations. He said that although today's military actions are visible, less visible actions are going on simultaneoulsy.
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