Afghan and Coalition Forces Conduct Series of Successful Anti-Terror Operations

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan and coalition forces have conducted a series of successful counterterrorism operations across multiple provinces in recent days, resulting in the deaths of numerous militants, the capture of key terrorist figures, and the repelling of insurgent attacks on strategic military installations.

Five Militants Killed, Ten Detained in Khowst and Zabul Operations

On Thursday, joint Afghan and coalition troops killed five armed militants and detained ten suspects—including a high-value Haqqani network operative and a Taliban subcommander—in coordinated operations in Khowst and Zabul provinces.

In Khowst’s Sabari district, the Haqqani militant was captured following a fierce firefight. As the joint forces approached his compound, armed insurgents launched an attack using small-arms fire and hand grenades. The troops responded with fire and close-air support, killing five militants. A subsequent search of the compound uncovered assault rifles, pistols, bomb-making materials, and hand grenades.

Meanwhile, in Zabul’s Qalat district, a Taliban subcommander known for trafficking weapons and orchestrating attacks along the vital Highway 1 was captured without incident, along with two suspected accomplices. Coalition forces ensured the safety of nine women and twenty children present at the compound.

Taliban Militants Killed in Dec. 31 Operation in Zabul

In a Dec. 31 raid in Zabul’s Arghandab district, coalition forces killed eight armed Taliban militants and detained one suspect. The operation targeted a Taliban subcommander linked to a bombing network and attacks on coalition forces. Six militants were killed after refusing to leave the targeted compound. Two more were killed via airstrike after attempting to engage coalition forces from a nearby ridge. Weapons and explosives were recovered from the site.

Insurgents Repelled in Helmand and Herat Provinces

Also on Dec. 31, Afghan National Police and coalition forces repelled an insurgent assault on a forward operating base in Helmand’s Nahr Surkh district, killing three attackers.

Earlier, on Dec. 29, insurgents launched a daytime assault on Shindand Airfield in Herat province. Afghan security guards successfully thwarted the attack, detaining four insurgents. One wounded attacker died after receiving medical treatment from coalition forces. His body was handed over to an Afghan Army cleric for burial in accordance with Islamic customs.

Joint Operation in Herat Nets Five Detainees

On Dec. 28, Afghan commandos and coalition troops conducted a joint operation in Sanowghan, Herat province, resulting in one insurgent killed and five detained. The insurgent was shot after opening fire on advancing commandos. Following the engagement, the combined force held discussions with local village elders to explain the mission, ensuring transparency and community cooperation. Two men, 12 women, and 18 children were safely protected during the operation.

Summary

The series of operations highlight the continued efforts of Afghan and coalition forces to disrupt militant networks, capture high-value targets, and ensure the security of key infrastructure and civilian populations. Military officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining pressure on insurgent groups and enhancing stability throughout the region.