Gates weighs in on boost in Afghan violence
Posted : Thursday Jun 26, 2008 6:00:00 EDT
WASHINGTON — Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Thursday he has “real concern” about a sharp rise in attacks by insurgent forces in eastern Afghanistan and says it reflects infiltration of fighters from Pakistan.
Gates was asked at a Pentagon news conference what he thought of a report by a senior U.S. general in Afghanistan on Tuesday that insurgent attacks in the east have increased by 40 percent this year.
“It is a matter of concern — real concern,” Gates replied. “It’s an issue that clearly we have to pursue with the Pakistani government.”
The defense secretary said one reason for the jump in insurgent attacks in that part of Afghanistan is that fighters have been able to cross the border without facing sufficient pressure by Pakistani troops.
“It actually was not bad until a few months ago,” he said, when the Pakistani government began negotiating peace or cease-fire deals with a variety of militant groups in areas bordering Afghanistan.
“The pressure was taken off these people,” as a result of such deals, he added. And that has meant fighters are freer to cross the border and create problems for us,” Gates said.
Leave a Comment
Most Viewed Stories
- Drill instructor to be awarded Silver Star
- This Marine’s mission: 1M push-ups in 2012
- Owner of troubled uniform store arrested
- Japan, U.S. agree on transfer of Marines
- Hazing court-martial begins for Marine sergeant
- U.S., Japan mull sending 4,700 Marines to Guam
- The ‘Stan: An officer’s unvarnished view
- DoD to recommend new combat roles for women
- Official: U.S. misjudged al-Qaida capabilities
- Marine sentenced for stealing from Iraq bases
- Pendleton Marine killed in deputy shooting
- Navy, Corps practice getting boots on the beach
Contests and Promotions
Enter our 2012 Red Carpet Contest!
Predict who will get the statues on Hollywood's big night and win a $200 Fandango Gift Card!
Click Here To Enter.
Win Tactical Night Vision Goggles!
Enter to Win the Military Times Sweepstakes!
Click Here To Enter.
Free Stickers
Click here and we'll send you a FREE AFGHANISTAN, IRAQ, VIETNAM, or DESERT STORM sticker.
Marketplace
Mil-Mall
2011 Insider's Guide To Military BenefitsThis handbook for military life includes essential information on pay and benefits, housing, education, health care and more.
Military Discounts
Save on your purchases!
In honor of your military service, you can find regular and name brand products at a special discount.






