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August 12, 2010

US Denied Helicopters for Pakistan Relief Effort Due to Afghan War
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Although the US has provided millions in aid, the war in Afghanistan has
hindered its ability to provide the needed assistance. On Wednesday, the
US announced a tripling of helicopters being sent to Pakistan to
nineteen. The Obama administration had been criticized for sending only
six helicopters so far, despite a Pakistani request for dozens more. The
US had denied the request because the helicopters play a key role in
Afghan combat operations. Asked about transferring the helicopters
earlier this week, a senior military official told the Washington Post
the decision would have to come from Washington, adding, "Do [the
helicopters] exist in the region? Yes. Are they available? No."



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