The battle for Helmand contributes to a troubling security outlook for Afghanistan where the hard-line Taliban, in power from 1996 to 2001, are seeking to oust foreign forces and set up an Islamist state. Helmand province is the source of about half of Afghanistan's opium, and some areas have fallen under the control of drug dealers and the Taliban. In June, as many as 800 Taliban fighters were involved in some assaults on government offices and police outposts in Sangin. Afghan forces say they have killed 400 Taliban across Helmand since then. Please pray for wisdom for our government as they respond to the deeply worrying and barbaric attacks waged by ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) both with humanitarian and intelligence efforts. More: