These troubles are likely to intensify in coming months, as the Taliban begin their spring offensive and the U.S. pulls back its troops from the country.

WSJ: Once-Touted Afghan Force Falls on Hard Times

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (CNN) -- Pakistani forces have killed 24 suspected militants in a fierce gunbattle in the lawless region bordering Afghanistan, as U.S. forces prepare for a spring offensive against al Qaeda and Taliban fighters from the Afghan side.

CNN: Fierce battle in al Qaeda hunt

Shortly after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in the Spring of 2010, Italian coastal communities and local politicians mounted an offensive on offshore drilling, fearing a similar event in the Mediterranean.

FORBES: Italy Looks For Relief With First New Energy Plan In 25 Years