US orders Afghan strategy review

WASHINGTON (AFP) - President George W Bush has ordered a review of US strategy in Afghanistan, a senior Pentagon official said Wednesday, amid rising insurgent violence and tensions with Pakistan.

The review is being led by Lieutenant General Douglas Lute, a deputy national security adviser, with the participation of senior representatives from the Pentagon and other departments, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

“Clearly this seems to be a larger, more cross-governmental approach to what we do here on a regular basis,” the official said, referring to the Pentagon and its regular reviews of military strategy.

“I think we’re trying to get everything in order and make sure were on a footing for long-term success,” he said.

With only months left to the current administration, the White House wants to move quickly, the official said.

“I wouldn’t necessarily assume that there is going to be a complete new strategy. That’s what’s being considered. Are these things that require adjustments?” he said.