Joint ISAF-Afghan patrol in Afghanistan

BBC

NATO says it is restricting operations with Afghan troops following a string of deadly attacks on its personnel by rogue Afghan security forces.

Only large operations will now be conducted jointly, with joint patrols evaluated on a case-by-case basis, reports the BBC.

ISAF said these were "prudent, but temporary, measures to reduce our profile and vulnerability".

NATO commanders have been frustrated that the Afghans have not done more to stem the rise in attacks, analysts say.

Britain's Defence Secretary, Phillip Hammond said the announcement did not amount to a change in strategy, but was to "ensure that any partnering with Afghan troops at lower than battalion level is properly approved with proper risk assessments in place".

The move came as a suicide bomber targeted a bus carrying foreigners in the capital, killing 12 people on Tuesday morning.

The attack happened on a major road leading to the international airport and reports suggest those on board worked at the airport.