Top military officer says violence up in Afghanistan

[maddezmom]

Source: AP

Top military officer says violence up in Afghanistan
36 minutes ago

WASHINGTON (AP) — Violence in Afghanistan is increasing, as security in Iraq in recent months has improved, the top U.S. uniformed military officer told Congress Tuesday.

Adm. Michael Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also said that Iran's Revolutionary Guard is directly jeopardizing peace in Iraq.

"Restraint in our response does not signal lack of resolve or capability to defend ourselves against threats," Mullen said in prepared testimony before the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee.

Mullen said the U.S. is deploying more troops to Afghanistan and encouraging local forces to do the same to contend with a growing insurgency, increased attacks and a burgeoning drug trade.

"In short, a stable Iraq and Afghanistan that are long-term partners and share our commitment to peace will be critical to achieving regional stability and security," he said.

"This will require years, not months, and will require the support of the American people, our regional allies and concerted action by the Iraqi and Afghan people and their leaders," Mullen added.



Read more: http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hcWJu9bbzrJZ7uNHjvMn0BuTGqHQD90PEOUG3