Northern Alliance at odds over some proposals at talks

The Northern Alliance says no outside military force is needed to secure the country because its own fighters are providing enough security.

By rejecting an international force, the Northern Alliance put itself at odds with three other factions on a crucial element in talks on Afghanistan's future.

Also under discussion are first steps toward a new multi-ethnic government.

Faced with strong international pressure for a success, UN mediators hoped to bring the Northern Alliance, a faction representing the former Afghan king and two smaller exile groups around the table to discuss progress.

Diplomats said all sides broadly agree the popular former King Mohammad Zaher Shah, should have a symbolic lead role in overseeing an initial interim administration.

But the Northern Alliance said such a role for the ex-king should first be approved by a traditional assembly of Afghan ethnic leaders.

The United Nations has three proposals for a security force to ensure peace in Afghanistan once the Taliban are defeated: an Afghan force, a UN peacekeeping force and an international security force.

UN officials have indicated an international force would be the most realistic, but Northern Alliance chief delegate Younus Qanooni said the alliance can handle the task itself.

"We don't feel a need for an outside force. There is security in place," he said.

UN officials and aid agencies have also expressed concern over unconfirmed reports that Northern Alliance forces have massacred hundreds of civilians and captured soldiers in their push against the Taliban.