4. Operation Medusa (2006)

The Long War: Canada in Afghanistan · Oct 1, 2026 · 39m · transcript

This episode includes accounts of grievous injury. The Taliban increases in strength and takes a more aggressive stance in the spring and summer of 2006. Hundreds of Taliban fighters prepare to directly challenge NATO forces near Kandahar City. Operation Medusa is launched to counter this new threat.

Operation Medusa is the largest battle Canadian forces fight in Afghanistan. Twelve soldiers die. Dozens more are injured.

Canadian maneuvers get off to a difficult start, with disagreement over an accelerated advance. Much of the early fighting centres on the White School, a key Taliban…