Not Just Afghanistan

"Not Just Afghanistan"

At some point in their tenure, most leaders face a changing environment, a new opportunity, or a crisis that demands new strategy and tactics. President Obama now faces such a challenge.

After chasing the Taliban and al-Qaeda from Afghanistan into the Tribal Areas of Pakistan, we supported a corrupt and largely ineffective government. Large portions of the population do not see the American presence as one that will improve their lot. From 2002 to 2008 the war of choice in Iraq monopolized resources much-needed for our effort in Afghanistan. Despite the superb efforts of units we did have on the ground, the Taliban have regained territory and influence. Resurgent al-Qaeda and Taliban in the Tribal Areas have also become a threat to the government in Pakistan. Given this fact -- and Pakistan's nuclear capability and intense strategic rivalry with India -- a Pakistan destabilized from Afghanistan and its own Tribal Areas presents an unacceptable strategic prospect.