Petraeus: No quick solution to Afghan war

THE general tapped to take over command of US and NATO forces in Afghanistan braced lawmakers yesterday for an escalation in violence, playing down hopes for a swift turnaround after nine years of war.

Senate confirmation by the weekend appeared assured for General David Petraeus, nominated to lead the war effort after President Barack Obama sacked General Stanley McChrystal for disparaging civilian leaders in an explosive magazine report.

Petraeus promised greater unity to counter what he called an “industrial strength insurgency” and said he would reassess controversial rules of engagement limiting the use of force by US troops and aircraft.