New Zealand extends stay in Afghanistan

AVA- New Zealand's near two-decade stint in Afghanistan has been stretched by another three months as the government considers its future in the country and Iraq.
There are currently 11 Kiwis in Afghanistan helping train local forces, alongside about 300 Australian troops currently serving there.
A decision on New Zealand's long-term plans in the country was expected this month.
But Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Monday said the mission had been extended to September 30 to allow more time to consider broader issues in the region, particularly in Iraq.
"This [extension] will allow us a little extra time to consider further advice on Afghanistan in light of other deployment decisions," Ms Ardern told media.
"What is particularly relevant for Iraq, of course, is we don't currently have a settled political environment. We're still awaiting the outcome of the election."
A decision on New Zealand's Iraq deployment is due before November.
The country is currently going through a recount of about 10 million votes after allegations of mass fraud in last month's elections.
About 3500 New Zealand troops have served in Afghanistan since 2001.
The announcement comes amid allegations some elite Australian soldiers may have committed war crimes in Afghanistan.