Why West Lost Afghan War

[Herr Straße Laufer]

Andrew J. Bacevich is a professor of history and international relations at Boston University and the author of "The Limits of Power: The End of American Exceptionalism."

Another in a line of elitist snobs who hate American and the principles upon which it stands? :chin:
The guy has one very important premise wrong. America's "exceptionalism" was, and for that matter is, not based on it's power. America's exeptionalism is based within it's founding principles ... at it's founding.
When you shift to the premise that America is exceptional because she is powerful you actually reduce her exceptional-ness.

And, to think about it, you cannot wage a "cold war" against a foe who is willing to continuously keep it hot? The is no mutual destruction for a side that believes their destruction brings them to paradise? Therefore their willingness to die regardless is a lever against our desire to live in peace. Like a rabid dog it is not the dog's fault, it is the disease that infects the dog. You have to hunt down and kill a rabid dog. That does not mean you should kill all the dogs? Nor, should you let the rabid dog live among you to chance a bite if you are trying to pet that rabid dog?

The only end to this will be an end to radical Islamic ideology. That may not come from outside, it must be formed from within. Until then you should simply hunt down and kill those who are willing to strap on bombs and kill the innocent, protect those who are on your side, and bring down wrath upon any Nation/State that give aid to the radicals with shelter and/or monetary support.

The trouble comes when a country gives too many sides to the issues and politicians interfere in issues where they have no expertise. One plan and one mind with an eye on victory should be the course. If victory is pulling out and letting radical Islamists take over, to gain a base to further attack us, there will not be a true victory? It will only give our enemies the ability to keep the heat while we strive to keep it cold.

And, I believe we did win a victory in Iraq. Millions now have the ability to choose to live free and decide their fate. A few thousand are against that. Decisive maybe not. But, in the land of the Muslims it was a victory.
Showing weakness now might just unravel the gains that were paid for by the measure of devotion the 5,000 gave?

Further shame is that leadership's corruption is as bad as the thought of not winning. All parts must work in concert, honestly, to bring about victory?

Interesting turns to this discussion. This is why coins have two sides? ;)



HSL