The Hill News

Afghan president Hamid Karzai criticized President Obama Thursday for his plan to begin withdrawing troops in July 2011, saying that the deadline has given "a morale boost" to fighters who will now wait to act until Americans leave.

According to the AP, Karzai also faulted American and other forces for refusing to address threats from Pakistan, which he called the "terrorists' refuge."

The comments took place during a meeting between Karzai and a visiting congressional delegation, and at a time when Obama, on the heels of withdrawing combat troops from Iraq, has increased pressure on Karzai to make his government and Afghan forces more effective.

Rep. Bob Inglis (R-S.C.) told the AP that Karzai condemned private security contractors in the country and said they have abused citizens' civil! rights.

Karzai also said that instead of US forces, the Afghans should lead during operations to root out the Taliban from small villages. 

Inglis responded positively to Karzai's morale.

"I was glad he said that because it indicated a level of ownership and commitment to Afghans taking charge of the task," he said. But, "I think it's an open question as to whether the Afghan security forces [are] at that level as of yet."