The new offensive, named "Eastern Resolve 2," is designed to break the monthslong stalemate in this southern valley where the Taliban are solidly entrenched. By occupying Dahaneh, the Marines hope to isolate insurgents in woods and mountains, away from civilian centers.
"I think this has the potential to be a watershed," said Capt. Zachary Martin, commander of Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, who led the assault.
The goal is to cut off the Taliban from a major rear base, and reclaim the area's market district. It is hoped this would have a ripple effect through nearby villages, making civilians more willing to cooperate with NATO forces. The Taliban levy taxes and maintain checkpoints in Dahaneh, which serves as a main trading route through northern Helmand, which produces 60 percent of the world's opium.
"In the long term, it could have tremendous effects for the entire province," said Martin, whose company is based in Naw Zad, five miles (10 kilometers) to the north.
Watershed but not decisive turning point. This doesn't mean that the results are immediate. But in the long run, denying the Taliban the money from opium and "taxes" will reduce their ability to bribe tribal leaders, pay for gunmen, and pay for roadside bombings.
And of course, we need the Pakistanis to succeed on their side of the border. The Taliban can operate in Afghanistan with either base areas inside Afghanistan or in Pakistan.
