Elements in ISI have links to terrorists: Pentagon

Washington: The Pentagon has conceded that some elements of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence might be supporting the terrorist networks in the region, thus undermining the war against terrorism by the US-led forces.

It is for the first time probably, Pentagon, which often is accused of shielding the Pakistan army and the ISI, acknowledged that the latter has links with terrorist networks, which is a matter of serious concern for the US.

Pentagon spokesman Col David Lapan, told reporters that some members of the ISI "might be interacting with terrorist organisations in ways that aren't consistent with what the government and military are doing."

The spokesman was responding to questions about a news report in The Wall Street Journal which said that ISI is assisting Taliban against NATO and US forces in Afghanistan.

Noting that ISI as an organisation does not support terrorism, Lapan said some elements within the intelligence agency could be providing assistance to terrorists.

He said the top Pakistan military leadership is working to correct the problem but like any large organisation, change

is difficult and comes slowly.

"The ISI has done a great deal in fighting terrorism. Some have said they probably have killed more terrorists than any other organisation. But we also have some concerns with the strategic focus of the ISI," Lapan said.

He added that Pakistan's Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani is aware of these concerns and even shares them.

"Our optimism is that Gen Kayani understands and has made it clear that they need to make some changes," he said.

The Pentagon spokesman said there is no word from Pakistan yet as to when the Torkham Gate, an important supply route for NATO and US troops in Afghanistan, would be reopened.

The crucial supply line was closed after two Pakistani soldiers were killed in NATO air strikes on September 30 on the Af-Pak border. The US yesterday apologised for the incident.

Lapan acknowledged that the closure of the supply line has increased security threat to hundreds of trucks waiting to cross the border, as it was very much evident in increasing number of Taliban attacks on these Afghanistan-bound trucks.

"The Pakistanis understand that we would like to see these gates open as soon as possible. We also understand that ultimately it is their decision, they take the security situation into consideration," he said.

The Pentagon in the meantime is looking at alternative means till the gate does open. "Pakistan is a friend and an ally of the United States," the spokesman said.