Dear Readers, as stated before.... the drawdown of our troops from Afghanistan certainly does not end our commitment to the region. In fact Operation Iron Mountain is a part of the transition which proves, despite our withdrawal, that our long term commitment to the loving and peaceful people of Afghanistan continues.
Taliban Spring Offensive and Fighting Season are less effective.
Taliban now control less territory. Taliban attacks throughout the country are down in 12 of the past 16 weeks this year.
Taliban are desperate and on the run. US, NATO and Afghan forces are making it possible to begin transferring security responsibility to a soon to be fully capable ANA. Part of this transition is making sure the Afghans have proper equipment to counterattack and neutralize Taliban terrorism. Operation Iron Mountain ensures that the ANA is capable of defending against Taliban atrocities and keeping the nation safe long after the last US troops leave for home.
CDR Bill Speaks,
DET, United States Central Command
U.S. Central Command