Afghan Taliban: Surge to Begin Sunday
VOA News: The Taliban has pledged to launch a spring offensive against the U.S.-led coalition and its allies in Afghanistan. The militant group says the operation will begin Sunday, but did not say how long the surge will last.
The Taliban said in a statement Saturday the targets of insurgent attacks will include military bases and convoys, as well as Afghan officials, including members of the peace council.
The insurgents urged Afghan citizens to stay away from the centers and activities of the coalition forces.
The Taliban said the offensive is being activated to protect Islam and religious values.
The announcement of the militant operation comes one day after senior officers with the U.S.-led coalition and Western diplomats in Afghanistan warned they expected a surge in militant attacks.