In today’s news: Gates defends administration internal debate on Afghanistan and says he does not expect major changes to Afghan strategy. Karzai calls for release of detained Afghan journalists. IEC says it has counted approximately 67% of Panjshir province’s vote. US Senators call for the firing of Special Inspector General for Afghan Reconstruction.
In today's local news: Afghan Government seeks to assure Kabul Bank account holders their money is safe; Gates says rules for US government and military contracting are being re-drafted in bid to curb corruption; IEC staff kidnapped in country's north released; US general says Taliban running out of money in Marjah.
