Page "Ahmad Shah Massoud" Paragraph 17

Following the 1979 invasion and occupation of Afghanistan by Soviet troops, Massoud devised a strategic plan for expelling the invaders and overthrowing the communist regime.

The first task was to establish a resistance force which had the hearts and minds of the people.

The second phase was one of " active defense " of the Panjshir stronghold, while carrying out asymmetric warfare.

The third phase, the " strategic offensive ", would see Massoud's forces taking control of large parts of Northern Afghanistan.

The fourth phase was the " general application " of Massoud's principles to the whole country, and the final demise of the Afghan communist government.