World News

American Military Response Measures Begin

Written by Joshua Smith - 8th October, 2001

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Approximately one hour ago, the Pentagon confirmed that the United States has launched the first military strikes against Afghanistan in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11th.

These attacks have been expected for some time by all parties involved, and come shortly after the US sured up support for its campaign by continuing its diplomatic missions and revealing evidence that has convinced the leaders of many nations, including our own, that prime suspect Usama bin Laden was indeed a central figure in the organization and support of the attacks.

President Bush made an address to his nation approximately half an hour following the initiation of the attacks and expressed that the decision to proceed with such strikes was necessary given that the Taliban failed to respond favorably to any of the demands expressed by the US. In a vein similar to his previous addresses, Mr Bush also called on the American people to remain calm and patient, and that the country's defense forces have been readied to protect the nation from any conceivable internal or external threats.

Shortly after Bush's address, UK Prime Minister Tony Blair spoke from 10 Downing Street to express his support for the strikes, and to justify Britain's involvement in the retaliatory efforts. His address emphasized not only the importance of seeking justice against terrorism and showing solidarity with the country's long-standing ally, but noted that some 90% of the heroin sold on British streets originates in Afghanistan. This suggests that the sustained military effort planned in Afghanistan is not only a response to the most deadly terrorist attack in Britain's history (based on the numer of British citizens who perished in the World Trade Center collapses) but is a war against drugs.

At this stage, explosions have been detected in and around the capital of Afghanistan, Kabul, and on the outskirts of the Taliban's spiritual centre, Kandahar. The attacks have reportedly consisted of a series of Tomahawk cruise missiles launched at military bases and other strategic targets from submarines supplied by the British. In addition, some eyewitnesses have reported that bombs were dropped from manned aircraft in the area.

The attacks near Kandahar have reportedly destroyed a key command base located at that city's airport.

Fearing possible terrorist action on US soil, defense aircraft have been deployed Stateside to protect heavily-populated potential targets, such as football stadiums, landmarks and city centres within the United States.