Karzai in new call for change of strategy

Afghan President Hamid Karzai again criticised coalition strategy in fighting the stubborn insurgency, saying it produced nothing but civilian deaths.

The sharp comments fit a pattern of greater outspokenness by the Afghan leader as he appeals for support among the beleaguered Afghan public.

In a meeting with visiting German Parliament speaker Norbert Lammert, Mr Karzai said there was a "serious need" to alter strategy against the Taliban and other groups linked to al Qaida.

The presidential office today quoted Mr Karzai as saying "there should be a review of the strategy in the fight against terrorism".

Mr Karzai's statements come at a time when the US is increasing pressure on the Afghan leader to do more to stamp out corruption.