Interview with Peter Jennings on ABC NewsSecretary Colin L. PowellWashington, DC November 9, 2001 QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, what did the United States do to facilitate this attack on Mazar-e-Sharif and do you think the Northern Alliance can hold the place?
SECRETARY POWELL: Well, I've heard reports that the Northern Alliance has arrived in Mazar-e-Sharif. And if that turns out to be the case, then I think that's good news. And if they have gotten that far, they clearly have cracked the defenses of the Taliban, and I hope they will be able to hold it. Of course, we have advisors in the area, Special Forces people in the area, and we are providing decisive air power, first world air force there that, with each passing day, we are better able to integrate with the actions on the ground. QUESTION: What makes you think the Northern Alliance can hang on? SECRETARY POWELL: The Northern Alliance is not the Taliban, and they have the advantage of air power that can help them. And it's not clear that the Taliban, if they have been cracked at Mazar-e-Sharif, have the wherewithal to mount a counterattack. QUESTION: Is the United States advising the Northern Alliance on what to do, vis-à-vis Kabul and when to move on Kabul? SECRETARY POWELL: Our indications are and our thinking is that it might be best that they not go into Kabul but make Kabul untenable for the Taliban forces that are in Kabul. And, to be frank, there would probably be a high level of tension within the city if the Northern Alliance were to come in force and with a population in Kabul that may not at the moment be friendly toward the Northern Alliance. QUESTION: But what's the difference between Kabul and Mazar-e-Sharif in terms of the population? SECRETARY POWELL: The population in Kabul, first of all, it's the capital of the country at the moment, and there could be some real difficulties if the Northern Alliance went in. QUESTION: Many thanks, Secretary of State Colin Powell.
Released on November 9, 2001 |
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