VOICED: US Marines face scourge of Taliban home-made bombs

U.S. Marines in Afghanistan face challenges from insurgents using IEDs, which complicate their operations and impact local civilians. Despite being pinned down, they plan a return to the valley, aiming to avoid IEDs. The Taliban's tactics hinder U.S. counterinsurgency efforts, which focus on gaining local support. The ongoing conflict continues to claim civilian lives, highlighting the drawn-out nature of the war.

What was the main challenge faced by the U.S. Marines in the remote Afghan valley?

• Extreme weather conditions

• Communication issues

• Homemade bombs and insurgent attacks

• Lack of food supplies

Why did the Marines plan a return to the valley?

• To establish a new base

• To retrieve lost equipment

• To conduct a training exercise

• To secure a supply route

What makes the terrain particularly challenging for the Marines?

• Sandy deserts

• Rocky and uneven ground

• Dense forests

• Steep mountains

What is the primary goal of the U.S. counterinsurgency strategy?

• To gain local support and aid development

• To control all major cities

• To eliminate all insurgents

• To increase military presence

What was the impact of the IED strike on civilians?

• Complete destruction of a village

• No casualties

• Minor injuries

• Two civilians killed