Gen. David Petraeus, commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan, looks on during the Independence Day celebrations in Kabul, Afghanistan, 3 Jul 2010 (file photo)
“The U.S. and international commander in Afghanistan, General David Petraeus, who took command a month ago, has issued his first guidance document for the nearly 150,000 troops under his command. He is emphasizing the need to provide security and good governance for the Afghan people.
In a three-and-a-half-page document, General Petraeus’ first two guidance points order his forces to “secure and serve the population” and “live among the people.” His 24 points also include fighting corruption and abuse of power, which he says fuel the insurgency. He also tells the troops to “pursue the enemy relentlessly,” to “fight hard” and also “with discipline,” and to consult local people and their leaders as they make plans.”