Fourth night of bombing underway - reports

There are reports that anti-aircraft fire has been heard for the fourth straight night in the Afghan capital of Kabul.

It appeared that a large number of jets were flying toward the west of the city, where the Darulaman Palace and Rishkore are located.

Heavy explosions, presumably bombs or missiles, could be heard coming from the area of the Kabul airport. They shook windows and buildings in a wide area.

The Afghan Islamic Press reported explosions in Shamshaad, a Taliban military base about four miles from the border with Pakistan.

The agency, quoting Afghan sources, said five or six explosions were heard near the base and flames could be seen rising in the night sky.

Taliban officials have claimed that 76 people - some of whom were civilians - have been killed since the offensive began, and more than 100 people have been injured.