U.S. Defense Secretary, Robert Gates, says the U.S. is ready to send troops to Pakistan to fight militants alongside government troops.
Gates says Pakistan hasn't asked for soldiers yet, but he made it clear that the U.S. is open to providing troops for joint efforts. The United States military is concerned about the rise of insurgents in Pakistan's tribal areas bordering Afghanistan. According to U.S. officials, the areas have become safe havens for Taliban and Al Qaeda militants.