Afghanistan's opposition forces, led by the Northern Alliance, are increasingly confident of overthrowing the Taleban.

To succeed, most observers say they will need more weapons and help from the American-led coalition dedicated to fighting terrorism and those who support it.

They will also have to overcome the tribalism and feuding which tore the country apart and let in the Taleban five years ago.

They have the Taleban in their sights, but Afghanistan's opposition Northern Alliance are outnumbered and for the moment outgunned by their enemy.

That could change if the battle-hardened mainly Tajik fighters get the weapons they need to roll back the Taleban from their present dominance.

Commander

Last month they lost their commander, Ahmed Shah Masood, who was killed by assassins probably sent by Osama Bin Laden.

But Masood's brother, Ahmed Wali Masood, who represents the opposition in London, insists that his death will only spur them on.

"Masood was the one who could foresee the national unity of Afghanistan, who wanted to see Afghanistan free of foreign hands and wanted to see a government of national unity and that was his aim and we, the United Front, are committed to pursue his goals and aims until the end," Ahmed Wali Masood said.