According to reports, despite an easing of tensions with the United States, Pakistan is persistently undermining security in Afghanistan by permitting safe havens for insurgents, a Pentagon report said. In a biannual war assessment mandated by Congress, the Defense Department said that the 68,000 US troops in Afghanistan and their allies had succeeded in preventing Taliban advances while limiting civilian casualties. The report, which covered developments from April through September, 2012, said that Pakistan “has contributed to US interests while simultaneously falling short in other areas.” 1

• 1. US report faults Pakistan over Afghan War, Dawn, December 11, 2012 at http://dawn.com/2012/12/11/us-report-faults-pakistan-over-afghan-war/