KABUL, Afghanistan, April 21, SPA -- A series of clashes andAir strikes in southern Afghanistan killed 11 Taliban fighters, the Defense Ministry said Monday. Afghan and foreign troops clashed with Taliban fightersand called in air strikes Sunday in Garmser district ofHelmand province, leaving seven fighters dead, theMinistry said. Over 1,000 people, mostly rebels, have died ininsurgency-related violence this year, according to anAssociated Press count based on numbers provided by Afghanand Western officials. --SPA www.spa.gov.sa/548218