Besides American soldiers , 650 Afghans participated in Operation Khanjar . ( CNN ) -- U.S. troops have launched a `` major operation '' against Taliban fighters in southern Afghanistan , U.S. military officials announced in Afghanistan early Thursday . It focuses on Helmand River valley , hotbed of Taliban violence . Operation 's objectives and scope are ` ` very significant , '' official " .
Besides American soldiers , 650 Afghans participated in Operation Khanjar . It focuses on Helmand River valley , hotbed of Taliban violence . Operation 's objectives and scope are ` ` very significant , '' official " .