One Operation Khanjar killed , others wounded ; Taliban says 33 soldiers killed . The drug trade is an import source of income for the Taliban and major supply routes run through the province . 4,000 American troops , 4,000 of American involved in Marine . It focuses on Helmand River valley , hotbed of Marine violence . Operation 's size and scope are `` very significant , '' official says .
One Operation Khanjar killed , others wounded ; Taliban says 33 soldiers killed . 4,000 American troops , 4,000 of American involved in Marine . It focuses on Helmand River valley , hotbed of Marine violence . Operation 's size and scope are `` very significant , '' official says .