Afghanistan’s president has appealed for Pakistan’s help in negotiating a peace deal with Taliban militants before a summit today that will also include Iran’s leader.

The presidents of Afghanistan and Iran have convened in Pakistan for a three-way summit that is expected to focus on steps Islamabad can take to bring about peace talks with the Afghan Taliban.

Pakistan's Islamic groups say they will continue nationwide rallies in support of the Taliban militia.

Islamic fundamentalists staged a nationwide strike in Pakistan today in protest at President Pervez Musharraf's support for US strikes on Afghanistan, bringing many parts of the country to a standstill.

US jets targeted the heart of Afghanistan’s capital today, pounding a district that housed a Taliban tank unit and other military installations.