In Afghanistan, at least fourteen civilians were killed Thursday in nationwide violence. Eleven members of the same family died in the day’s deadliest attack. Meanwhile, a US soldier and three British soldiers were killed in bombings in southern Afghanistan. The violence comes as Defense Secretary Robert Gates has said he has no idea when the US occupation of Afghanistan will come to an end. Speaking at the Pentagon Thursday, Gates said defeating the Taliban and al-Qaeda will take “a few years.” Gates also hinted at a troop increase following the review of the new US commander in Afghanistan, General Stanley McChrystal.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates: “That assessment will not include specific recommendations or requests for more forces. However, we have made clear to General McChrystal that he is free to ask for what he needs to complete the important mission that he has been given.”