“We Come in Peace”

Thousands of NATO soldiers in Helmand Province await orders to begin the largest offensive operation since the initial invasion of Afghanistan in 2001. The objective of the attack, codenamed “Mushtarak” and supported by Afghan troops, is to drive the Taliban completely out of the region. Prior to opening fire, the U.S. Army began dropping leaflets warning citizens not to aid the insurgents or allow them on their property. Fliers distributed in the city of Marjah also bore the note, “The troops are coming to help you and come in peace.” Radio stations and loudspeaker trucks also repeated the same message. But the people don’t believe the propaganda. News agencies report that over 400 families have already fled the region, and government organizations are preparing for increasing numbers of refugees. Marjah’s population is about 80,000.

According to reports in the Swiss newspaper Basler Zeitung, around 20,000 troops are preparing to do battle in what is being called “the biggest battle of the Afghan war.” The newspaper article goes on to say, “The offensive will be carried out for the most part by foot soldiers, because the terrain around Marjah is criss-crossed by irrigation canals that were built 10 years ago by the Americans to aid Afghan agriculture but which have since unfortunately proven to be ideal for growing opium poppies.”

In Paktia Province, meanwhile, Afghan agencies are investigating allegations that one military engagement has already resulted in the killing of innocent Afghan civilians. The occupiers claim that they killed a number of insurgents with the help of Afghan troops.

The Associated Press has since pointed out inconsistencies in separate versions put out by NATO sources. According to an early report, the unit made a “horrifying discovery” during a search of one house. In an adjoining room, they claim to have discovered the hidden bodies of three bound and gagged women. A few hours later, NATO sources reported – without attempting to explain the discrepancies – they had discovered the bodies of two bound and gagged women and two men.

Survivors have accused the military unit of liquidating five innocent people. One family member told an AP reporter by telephone that about 20 people had gathered at the house to celebrate the birth of a child. United States Special Forces surrounded the house. When one of the Afghan men went into the yard to ask why the troops had surrounded the house, he was shot dead. The same happened to a second man who ventured outside. The people remaining in the house were ordered outside and were bound and forced to kneel. A local politician, Shajesta Jan Ahadi, claimed that no Afghan troops had taken part in the action.

The German newsmagazine Der Stern reported in its latest edition that occupying forces in Afghanistan had been drawing up secret death lists containing the names of middle- and high-ranking commanders. When these individuals are found, they are either to be captured or killed, depending on their list designation: Code C for “capture” or Code K for “kill.” Members of the German Army’s Special Forces are also involved in helping the American troops in the operation.