In Panjwayi and Zhari this will involve a battle sometime after mid-September, when the leaves wither on the grape-vines where insurgents hide.

ECONOMIST: Afghanistan

In Zhari, Panjway and Maiwand, most Taliban are locals, operating within three miles of their homes and often enjoying support within their communities, American commanders said.

WSJ: Attacks by Taliban Rise in Surge Areas

Clustered by a bed nearby on a recent day were members of the Afghan Local Police anti-Taliban defense force from the Howz-e-Madad village of Zhari district.

WSJ: Attacks by Taliban Rise in Surge Areas

At Patrol Base Wilson, in Kandahar province's volatile Zhari district, American and Canadian military trainers are trying accomplish a top-priority task, something many Afghans believe can't be done: create a police force that will maintain law and order in a country where few feel safe anymore.

NPR: U.S. Launches Aggressive Training for Afghan Police