Allied Forces Clash With Militants on Border

U.S. and allied troops backed by warplanes and helicopters fought dozens of militants in the biggest clash in months along the mountainous border with Pakistan. At least two militants and three Afghan soldiers were killed.

The battle began when militants armed with rockets and machine guns attacked a military post in Khowst, a former Al Qaeda stronghold about 100 miles southeast of Kabul, the capital, Afghan commander Gen. Khial Baz said.

U.S. spokesman Maj. Rick Peat said more than 100 Afghan and American troops clashed with 50 militants in the area. A B-1 bomber, two A-10 ground- attack aircraft and four Cobra helicopter gunships provided support, he said.