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November 20, 2013

Afghanistan Seeks U.S. Apology in Long-Term Security Pact 
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The White House and Afghanistan are reportedly close to an agreement
that would allow continued U.S. raids even after most American troops
withdraw in 2014. Under the deal, the United States would continue
raiding Afghan homes under "extraordinary circumstances" to save lives.
In return, the Afghan government has asked President Obama to write a
letter apologizing for U.S. operations that have killed or injured
Afghan civilians. The Obama administration is reportedly considering the
demand. But speaking on CNN, National Security Adviser Susan Rice said
the United States will not apologize to Afghanistan.

Susan Rice: "No such letter has been drafted or delivered. There is not
a need for the United States to apologize to Afghanistan. Quite the
contrary, we have sacrificed and supported them in their democratic
progress and in tackling the insurgents and al-Qaeda. So that is not on
the table."

U.S. and Afghan officials are rushing to complete the security pact so
it can be put to a vote by a council of Afghan elders known as a loya
jirga. As part of the agreement, the United States is seeking to
maintain a number of military bases in Afghanistan beyond 2014.

 

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