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Bush: U.S. making progress on 2 terror fronts

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- While cautioning the fight against terrorism isn't an "instant gratification war," President Bush insisted Friday that "we are making good progress" in Afghanistan and the United States.

"The enemy is being hunted down abroad and at home," Bush said. "I am very satisfied and the American people should be satisfied with the progress we are making on the ground."

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The remarks came at a photo opportunity with Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, the leader of Africa's most populous country. Obasanjo pledged his support for the U.S.-led anti-terrorism coalition.

Bush indicated that U.S. military action will not be scaled down during Ramandan, the Muslim holy month that starts in mid-November. Several Muslim leaders in the United States and abroad have called for a bombing halt during that period, but the Pentagon and Northern Alliance have pledged to continue military activities.

"The enemy won't rest during Ramadan, and neither will we," the president said.

Most of the Taliban's assets have been demolished, according to Bush, and the United States is "tightening the net" on terrorists worldwide. He noted that 280 suspected terrorists have been arrested around the globe since September 11.

Heightened security alerts, such as those prompted by nonspecific but "credible" threats that Attorney General John Aschroft cited Monday, "raise the risk for those who want to conduct terrorist activities" in the United States, Bush said.

The weeklong state of high alert has been extended "indefinitely," Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge said Friday.

Bush also pledged to share any discoveries regarding anthrax, which has led to four deaths in the past month.

"I believe the hard work of our public health officials has saved lives," the president said.