Operation Anaconda

Operation Anaconda was a military campaign launched by U.S. and allied forces in early 2002 to eliminate Taliban and al-Qaeda fighters in Afghanistan’s Paktia Province. The operation aimed to clear known insurgent hideouts and establish security in the region, which was difficult due to rugged terrain and resilient enemy fighters. It involved extensive coordination, aerial support, and ground combat. Despite initial success in targeting enemy strongholds, the operation exposed challenges such as underestimated opposition strength and coordination issues, highlighting the complexities of counterinsurgency efforts in unfamiliar terrain.