Islamic rebels known as the Taliban captured the eastern city of Jalalabad today, gaining virtual control of nearly two-thirds of Afghanistan and sending Government troops retreating to Kabul, the capital.
At least 70 people were reported killed in the attack, but that figure could not be confirmed.
The capture of Jalalabad gives the Taliban control over a major ground route for supplies to Kabul from Pakistan and puts increased pressure on the ruling coalition of President Burhanuddin Rabbani, who has accused Pakistan of aiding the rebels.
The Taliban are the most conservative of the Islamic factions that have fought for control here since the communists lost power in 1992, and they have imposed strict religious rule in areas they control.
Source: New York Times
