Afghanistan: Weakened Opposition

Subject: So. Studies/Sciences: U.S./World Issues

War on Terrorism Series

This series of documentaries comes directly from the front lines of the war. Produced on-location, often in harm’s way, each program informs viewers of important issues and events related to the attacks on America and its ensuing efforts in the war against terrorism. Programs available on 6 individual DVDs, Digital Click for more

Afghanistan: Weakened Opposition

Russia withdrew its forces from Afghanistan in 1989; then the Taliban, a politico-religious group made up of radical Sunni Islamists, organized forces seizing the capital city, Kabul, in 1996; then after capturing 95% of the country, established the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. Afgans opposed to the Taliban's rule created the United Islamic Front for the Salvation of Afghanistan, commonly called the Northern Alliance by the western media. After the September 11, 2001, attacks, the United States launched a military campaign, Operation Enduring Freedom, inside Afghanistan to destroy Al-Qaeda terrorist training camps established in that country. This classic program documents the beginning struggles of the Northern Alliance. Subject to severe drought, poverty and war, its forces were weak and the future for Afghanistan looked bleak; however, once receiving the assistance of the United States, we see how the Northern Alliance began to achieve success in its long running fight against the Taliban. Produced by ABC Australia. 2010DR/CL JSCA 21 min.