ARGHANDAB DISTRICT, Afghanistan - The commander of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan has promised to build a new forward operating base in the strategic Arghandab district north of Kandahar.
Gen. Dan McNeil made the announcement today during a town council meeting aimed at bolstering support for newly appointed district leader Kareemullah Naqibi.
McNeil said a permanent presence will help maintain security in the generally peaceful area where Canadian and Afghan forces stymied a Taliban attempt to take over the region in October.
Insurgents moved into the area after the death of Arghandab's revered leader and Taliban enemy Mullah Naqib but were quickly driven out by coalition troops.
The young Naqibi was made leader of the Alokozai tribe which rules the Arghandab, but has struggled to win the support of village elders.
Home to lush grape and pomegranate orchards, the Arghandab is considered a strategic gateway to Kandahar City just 20 kilometres to the south.
