As the Pentagon expands its deployment in Iraq, U.S. troops are facing a longer stay in Afghanistan. The Pentagon has announced more than 3,000 U.S. troops will have their deployment extended an extra four months. New troops could also be on the way. On Thursday, NATO’s commander in Afghanistan, David Richards, said NATO’s force will be increased.

Gen. David Richards: “More ISAF troops are being committed to this campaign. You will hear very good news formally very shortly on that. I anticipate at least another brigade of combat troops from ISAF nations coming here shortly and more after that.”

News of an expanded deployment comes as the Bush administration says it will seek another $10 billion in military and civil aid for Afghanistan.