FT.com : Afghanistan - South Afghanistan key to Nato mission - by James Blitz

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Afghanistan - South Afghanistan key to Nato mission - by James Blitz

Thursday’s operation by US marines in the Helmand valley marks the start of the biggest military action by western powers in Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. The decision to move into parts of Helmand province where the British have been unable to venture – clearing out the Taliban from their sanctuaries – is one fraught with risk. But it marks a recognition by the Obama administration, and by Nato commanders, that establishing security in south Afghanistan is critical to the success of international efforts across the country.