BRITAIN must hold its resolve in Afghanistan, the Defence Secretary insisted, as the UK death toll equalled that of the Falklands War.
British troops, including soldiers from the Chester-based 1st Battalion The Royal Welsh, are poised to begin a major new operation to drive the Taliban out of a stronghold in and around Marjah, in southern Afghanistan.
Operation Moshtarak, which means “together” in the Dari language, will involve thousands of UK, American and Afghan forces.
A total of 255 British servicemen and women have now died since operations in Afghanistan began in October, 2001.
The two latest casualties – soldiers from the Royal Scots Borderers killed in an explison – were not involved in Operation Moshtarak.
But Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth warned that British casualties were a “very real risk” during the bid to clear militants from areas surrounding the town of Marjah in Helmand.
He said: “We have seen an intense, hard and bloody period in Afghanistan but, as we prepare to consolidate our progress with the launch of Operation Moshtarak, it is imperative that we hold our resolve. The national security of the UK and the safety of its citizens depends on that.
“Our presence in Afghanistan is vital in preventing it from once again becoming a haven for terrorists who would seek to threaten the UK.
“In taking the fight to the insurgents, providing security and hope for the Afghan people and building up their own security forces, we will – and must – succeed.”
Taliban fighters have been given the choice of laying down their weapons or facing “overwhelming force” from thousands of UK, US and Afghan troops. Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup said while the Falklands milestone would attract attention, British troops would continue their work regardless.
He said: “We remember and honour all those who have given their lives in the line of duty and pay tribute to the significant progress that they have helped to achieve. Sad milestones such as this naturally attract attention in the UK, but in theatre our people continue resolutely and courageously with the task of assisting Afghans to build their own future.
“Day after day, service personnel from the UK and from our partner nations are putting their lives on the line in order to make possible the progress we have seen, and are continuing to see, in Helmand province. We owe it to them to show resolve and to give our utmost backing.”
Afghan defence minister General Abdul Rahim Wardak said: “I look forward to the day when the Afghan security forces are able to take full responsibility for Afghanistan’s security.”
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