US troops storm Taliban village

US troops attacked a Taliban-held town in southern Afghanistan today as part of operations to secure the country ahead of presidential elections.

The Taliban put up such fierce resistance that Marines said they suspected the militants knew the assault was coming.

Other soldiers met heavy resistance as they fought to seize control of the mountains surrounding Dahaneh in Helmand province.

It was the first time Nato troops had entered Dahaneh, which has been under Taliban control for years.

Western and Afghan troops are working to protect voting sites around the country so Afghans can take part in the country’s second-ever direct presidential election on August 20. The Taliban have vowed to disrupt the elections, and attacks are on the rise.

The new offensive, named “Eastern Resolve 2,” is designed to break the months-long stalemate in the southern valley where the Taliban are solidly entrenched. By occupying Dahaneh, the Marines hope to isolate insurgents in woods and mountains, away from civilian centres.

The goal is to cut off the Taliban from a major rear base, and reclaim the area’s market district. It is hoped this would have a ripple effect through neighbouring villages, making civilians more willing to cooperate with Nato forces.

The Taliban levy taxes and maintain checkpoints in Dahaneh, which serves as a main trading route through northern Helmand, which produces 60% of the world’s opium.

A combined force of 500 US and Afghan troops took part in the attack.