US marines begin massive offensive in Afghanistan

US Marines have launched a massive offensive into lower Helmand River in southern Afghanistan, as President Barack Obama unveils a new war plan in the region. Operation Khanjar (Strike of the Sword) involved nearly 4,000 US forces as well as 650 Afghan police and soldiers, the Marine Expeditionary Brigade said, announcing the pre-dawn launch of the drive in southern Helmand province. The operation was the Marines first major operation since they were deployed to the region over the past few months. The valley in Helmand River, mostly under wheat and opium plantation along the Helmand River, is largely in the hands of Taliban fighters who have resisted ISAF forces for years.