13 Americans were reportedly killed today outside Kabul. They were in a convoy nearly at their destination when a suicide bomber detonated a vehicle packed with explosives next to an armored bus.

For those of you unaware, these armored Rhino buses are tough monsters. It takes a serious punch to destroy one of those AND kill its occupants. If you followed the Saddam trials a few years back, you may recall what these buses look like. They were used to transport Saddam and his trial team between his cell and the courthouse. If not, here’s an example of one after being attacked (not from this story):

In related news that isn’t being reported, our FOB here in Kandahar came under rocket attack this morning around 0422. Insurgents launched 4 rocket attacks against us. It would have been a rude awakening had I been asleep. As a matter of fact, I was literally about to step outside and take a shower. Instead, I had to step into a bunker, where I remained for the next hour waiting for the end. Two attacks were launched at 0422 and two at 0443. By 0530, the all clear was sounded.

The Taliban is getting bold. I think this is related to a number of issues.

The first is that President Karzai recently stated in an interview with Pakistani television that if the United States ever went to war with Pakistan, Afghanistan would side with the Pakistanis.

“If fighting starts between Pakistan and the U.S., we are beside Pakistan,” Karzai said. “If Pakistan is attacked and the people of Pakistan need Afghanistan’s help, Afghanistan will be there with you.”

Because the Taliban is apparently supported by the Pakistanis, this undoubtedly bolsters Taliban insurgents.

The second is the drawdown currently taking place here. The Taliban sense weakness and a lack of will in our government. Knowing that their main threat will soon be gone has them jockeying for power.

Both of these issues will clearly affect us troops left behind to deal with it. One good point is that we successfully removed over two and a half tons of explosive material recently from the streets, which will at least put a dent in insurgents’ ability to make more of these large bombs.