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Civilian Casualties in Afghanistan as U.S. Continues Strikes
By Amir Abdel Latif, IOL Correspondent in Kandahar
KANDAHAR, Oct 9 (IslamOnline) - Thirty-five people are reported dead as a total blackout fell on Kandahar in the wake of fresh U.S. bombings Monday evening, the second strike in as many days.
Deafening explosions are being heard in the vicinity; however, none of missiles have hit the main city so far.
Missile attacks on Kabul, Jalalabad, Herat and Khost have also been reported, but thus far there are no details about the total number of targets and casualties.
Taliban forces in Kandahar appear to be armed with stringer missiles and anti-aircraft guns, and are vigorously chasing the aircraft firing missiles.
Meanwhile, rescue workers dug through the debris and wreckage of demolished houses and military installations in Kabul and Jalalabad Monday night in attempts to recover bodies and possible survivors resulting from the U.S. attacks.
So far, 13 deaths have been reported in Kabul and Jalalabad, raising the total number of deaths during last two days to 35, a Taliban official said, adding that dozens more have suffered injuries in the strikes.
Two people injured in Sunday night's attack succumbed to their injuries at Kandahar General hospital Monday evening, the official said.
"We are expecting an increase in the number of deaths due to blackout and suspension of electricity in various areas of the affected cities, rescue teams are facing serious difficulties in carrying out the relief operation," he added.
"You have to wait till morning to acquaint yourself about the actual loss to lives and property," he said.
According to initial reports, B-52 and B-1 aircraft pounded the north and western areas of Kabul, the north and southern areas of Jalalabad and the southern region of Kandahar Monday night, killing and additional 13 people, most of them reported to be civilians - including women and children.
Reportedly, cruise missiles also hit the city of Herat, but Taliban officials could not specify the exact locations.
There is a total blackout in Kandahar and rescue teams have been sent to the affected area. However, no casualties have thus far been reported in the city.
Kandahar is still being rocked by anti-aircraft fire chasing U.S. and British aircraft, but none of them have been shot down so far.
Huge ditches could be seen in the suburban town of Maroof, which was the main target of the bombings. Residents have already vacated the area and have been moved to safer ground fearing more bombings at Kandahar airport and other military installations in the area.
Taliban officials said the successive missile attacks and bombings had not caused any damage to their ammunition depots and air bases. Moreover, "we had already shifted fighter aircrafts and weaponry to safer places," Taliban officials added.
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