Pakistan backs army chief over his rebuke of U.S. incursion

Pakistan backs army chief over US rebuke

Pakistan's civilian leadership today endorsed the head of the army after he took the unusual step of criticising the US for launching unilateral attacks on Pakistani soil.

General Kayani's criticism of US for incursion into Pakistan territory 'reflects government opinion' says prime minister

General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, considered by the US as a pivotal figure in the "war on terror", said yesterday Pakistan had never agreed to allow the US to operate on Pakistani territory, and that unilateral attacks risked undermining joint efforts against insurgents.

"Falling for short-term gains while ignoring our long-term interest is not the right way forward," Kayani warned.

Kayani usually keeps a low profile so his open rebuke of the US is likely to make policymakers in Washington sit up and take notice.

Today, Pakistan's prime minister, Yousaf Raza Gilani, said Kayani reflected government opinion and policy. Pakistan has been in uproar ever since US special forces carried out an incursion into Pakistani territory last week without telling Islamabad in advance.

The Pakistani government has protested over the ground assault and even summoned the US ambassador. But Kayani's comment will attract particular attention in the US, as he leads Pakistan's most powerful and stable institution.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/sep/11/pakistan.usa