Afghan council backs US troops deal - but Karzai delays signing

Afghanistan’s president has said he will not immediately sign a security deal with the United States, ignoring a recommendation by an assembly of Afghan elders and leaders that he do so by the end of the year.

Hamid Karzai spoke after the Loya Jirga issued its statement. He argued Afghanistan needed more time to ensure that the United States was committed to peace in the country.