Civilian deaths reported in clash

NATO and Afghan troops called in airstrikes during a battle against insurgents that left 20 suspected militants and several civilians dead in central Afghanistan, officials said.

Afghan officials said between three and 12 civilians were killed Monday in Wardak province. NATO spokesman Maj. Charles Anthony said soldiers were investigating the incident to see whether civilians had died.

Meanwhile, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization said one of its soldiers was killed in eastern Afghanistan.