Pentagon chief says Mideast must adopt reforms

OTTAWA, Canada – Defense Secretary Robert Gates is urging what he calls "across-the-board" reforms in Arab countries rocked by waves of civil unrest.

At a news conference with his Canadian counterpart, Gates said the U.S. has been clear in its insistence that human and political rights are "fundamental."

He did not comment directly on whether he believes the unrest in Tunisia, Egypt and Yemen puts US national security interests at risk.

All are U.S. allies or partners and receive U.S. aid.