31.   A government offensive there had begun after a significant buildup in recent days, U.N. spokesman Chris Vernon said.

32.   A key communications center located there was reported to be in government hands since shortly after an offensive began three weeks ago.

33.   About six rebels have been killed in fighting since the current offensive began, officials said.

34.   Ali Akbar Turadzhonzoda, the top opposition negotiator, told the Interfax news agency that the government offensive began just hours after the cease-fire accord was signed Friday.

35.   Arafat now has more reason to continue attacking Israel than at any point since his offensive began.

36.   As in other Arab countries, tens of thousands in Lebanon have staged demonstrations since the Israeli offensive began in late April.

37.   Before the offensive began, the rebels operated a ferry service across the lagoon to help civilians cross to the military-controlled mainland.

38.   Before the Russian offensive began in Chechnya, Grachev had boasted he could force the renegade republic into submission in less than two hours with a single parachute regiment.

39.   British Defense Secretary Geoff Hoon claimed that some Taliban supporters have deserted since the offensive began, but gave few details.

40.   But once the Croat offensive began, it suddenly looked defenseless.