WASHINGTON - The Pentagon on Tuesday exuded confidence the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) would soon retake Kunduz province from the Taliban.

“The ANDSF have amassed a sizeable force to retake the city, numbering in thousands. We are confident they will defeat the Taliban and restore the city to Afghan control,” Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook said.

He added the Pentagon was ready to provide all help to the Afghan forces in their endeavor to strengthen their control of the strategic city and vanquish the insurgent movement.

Responding to a question, he said the US strike on the outskirts of Kunduz was a force protection raid conducted by an F-16 against the Taliban advancing toward the airport and presenting a threat to American and Coalition personnel. (Pajhwok)