Operation Moshtarak — Battle of Marjah

NATO and Afghan forces launch Operation Moshtarak (Together), the largest military operation since 2001, to clear Taliban forces from Marjah, a key Taliban-controlled town in Helmand province. Over 15,000 troops participate. General McChrystal promises a 'government in a box' will follow to restore civil administration. The operation succeeds militarily but the governance component proves deeply problematic.