Afghanistan at the 'tipping point'

Last Updated: Sunday, 8 October 2006, 19:17 GMT 20:17 UK


Afghans 'could switch allegiance'

Gen Richards believes success over the winter is crucial.
General David Richards

Nato's commander in Afghanistan has said the country's citizens may start supporting the Taleban unless their lives improve in the next six months.

Gen David Richards, a British officer, said the country was at a "tipping point", warning that up to 70% of Afghans could switch their support.

They might prefer the "austere and unpleasant" life under the Taleban to five more years of fighting, he said.

He was speaking a day after Tony Blair pledged full support for UK troops.

UK troops 'need more helicopters.'

Gen Richards said: "If we collectively ... do not exploit this winter to start achieving concrete and visible improvement, then some 70% of Afghans could switch sides."

The British general wants about 2,500 additional troops to form a reserve battalion to help reconstruction and development efforts.


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