Colonel JOE CURTIN (Spokesman, Pentagon): The division has almost 300 helicopters, cargo, attack and reconnaissance-type aircraft, so it is an extremely capable division that can provide the necessary speed and shock effect that you would need in a large-scale combat operation.

NPR: Ambitious U.S.-Iraqi Air Assault Targets Insurgents

"This (garrison) can continue the role of a holding operation to combat remaining pockets of militancy, and at the same time boost the confidence of the civil administration, " he says.

BBC: Pakistan refugees face uncertain return

Mr Eliasson said UN peacekeepers would only be deployed after the "combat phase" of the operation was over.

BBC: Mali 'hesitant' over UN peacekeeping force