US launches more air attacks

US warplanes began a fourth straight night of attacks as soon as darkness fell in Afghanistan.

Taliban anti-aircraft gunners opened fire from at least three positions near the centre of Kabul, the capital.

Within minutes, anti-aircraft fire appeared to be stepping up from every direction and the roar of a number of jets could be heard overhead.

Most of the firing appeared to be from the west of the city around Rishkore and Kargah - both areas where Osama bin Laden is believed to have training camps.

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.