Coalition forces and Afghan soldiers prepare flags in Kandahar for an official ceremony in which power was handed to NATO forces in southern Afghanistan on July 31st.

The changeover, marked by a simple flag ceremony July 31 at Kandahar air field, came after dozens of Taliban died in the latest fighting, and a car bomb intended for the governor of an eastern province killed eight people.

NATO's mission is considered the most dangerous and challenging in the Western alliance's 57-year history.

The leader of U.S.-led coalition forces, Lt. Gen. Karl Eikenberry, transferred command to the chief of the NATO-led force, British Lt. Gen. David Richards.

The coalition, first deployed nearly five years ago, is focusing its attention on eastern Afghanistan, where al-Qaida and Taliban are active.

Richards indicated that the NATO force would continue using the heavy fire power that has been employed by the coalition in recent months in response to the escalation in militant attacks, including mass assaults on several small southern towns.

"We will retain the capability and will to strike ruthlessly at the enemies of Afghanistan when required," the British general said.

NATO nevertheless hopes to bring a new strategy to dealing with the Taliban rebellion: establishing bases rather than chasing militants. It wants to win the support of locals by creating secure zones where development can take place.

The Japan Times Weekly: Aug. 5, 2006
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