Friday, October 21 2005 11:12 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Washington: The United States has expressed concern about a video showing US soldiers allegedly cremating two Taliban fighters in Afghanistan in violation of Islamic tradition.

State Department Spokesman Sean McCormack said here yesterday (Oct 20, 2005) the allegation that the bodies were burned in order to taunt and flush out other Taliban fighters was 'very serious and troublesome' if true.

Citing the example of the US army providing evacuation helicopter flights and delivery of humanitarian aid to quake victims in Pakistan, he said the alleged incident in Afghanistan did not reflect American values.

McCormack said that the US was instructing its embassies around the world to convey the message that these actions are not reflective of the US military.

"The Department of Defense has said that it is the policy of the United States to treat all remains in consistence with the Geneva Convention and with the utmost respect. And our military personnel receive clear instructions to this effect," he said.

McCormack also said if there was any wrongdoing, those responsible would be held to account.

Meanwhile, the Combined Forces Command in Afghanistan has said it does not condone the violation of Muslim religious beliefs.

Army Major General Jason Kamiya said yesterday that an investigation had been launched into the incident.

If the charges are substantiated, action will be taken according to the US Uniform Code of Military Justice, he said.