Basically fighting against a rebellion.
Counterinsurgency in Northern Afghanistan happened in 2011.
The operational theme that is comprised of the principle activities of insurgency, counterinsurgency, and unconventional warfare is irregular warfare.
Preparation
Middle stage counterinsurgency tries to achieve stability with efforts aimed at assisting the patient through long term recovery or restoration of health. Counterinsurgency is often referred to simply as COIN.
Preparation
Counterinsurgency forces must differentiate between civilians and insurgents, as well as distinguishing between legitimate grievances and criminal activities. It is also crucial to separate local populations from external influences that may be fueling the insurgency. By accurately identifying these distinctions, counterinsurgency forces can effectively target their efforts and minimize civilian casualties.
A. J. Birtle has written: 'U.S. Army counterinsurgency and contingency operations doctrine, 1942-1976' -- subject(s): Counterinsurgency, History, United States, United States. Army
The focus of counterinsurgency (COIN) operations generally
Late stage
Irregular Warfare
counterinsurgency (also spelled counter-insurgency) is a military term used to describe aggressive action taken by a government or organized body against a rebellion or other revolutionary group attempting to overthrow a government.
There are nine additional counterinsurgency imperatives in addition to the original seven outlined in the U.S. Army/Marine Corps Counterinsurgency Field Manual. These include shaping the civil environment, applying combat power judiciously, leveraging military and civilian capabilities, isolating insurgents from their support base, facilitating legitimate governance, and developing host-nation forces.