Offensive in Afghanistan: the British should expect losses

LONDON - The British government warned Sunday that the country could expect losses among its forces serving in Afghanistan, while a major military offensive should be launched in the coming days in the south.

•    "Naturally, the losses are something that can be expected when one is involved in these operations," said Defense Minister Bob Ainsworth to the media.
  
     "This is in no way a safe environment and no matter how much we invest in equipment and means for the troops. We can never fully make these transactions absent of any risk," he added.
  
     According to reports, 4,000 soldiers of the British forces - rising to 9,500 people in Afghanistan - will take part in the coming days in a major offensive, called «Operation Mushtarak» (together).
  
     The latter, led by NATO troops and Afghan army must be launched in the Marjah Valley in Helmand province, a stronghold of insurgents ousted in 2001.
  
     The commander of international forces in Afghanistan, Major General Stanley McChrystal, who commands the 113,000 U.S. and NATO troops deployed in the country, said Sunday that this operation is to send to the insurgents a "strong signal" that Kabul extends its control.
  
     253 British soldiers have lost their lives in Afghanistan since the intervention of the Allies in 2001. Last year was the bloodiest for Great Britain since the Falklands War against Argentina in 1982.
  
  
• Ennaharonline/ M. O.