Mission in Afghanistan

Let's start at the bottom line. I don't see how it is possible that our current involvement in Afghanistan will result in any significant and permanent good. I see no way in which any "gains" will be maintained. The problems are with the Taliban and the features of a tribal society. The Taliban is elastic in its ability to constantly recreate bodies to continue their "mission". A centralized government exists only in name. It has no relevancy to most of the nation. There is no system of justice apart from the Taliban. It is a colossal mistake! Fred Kaplan's column is so depressing because the Military Review states quite clearly that there is a need for Pakistan to secure its tribal areas and, in fact, that is not happening and, according to the article, will not.

Obama's justification for the "surge" delivered at West Point and yesterday's review of the status of the current mission do not address the viability of the mission. The mumbo-jumbo does nothing for me. In particular, Obama's focus on getting rid of al Qaeda is ludicrous. There is no evidence that we are doing much damage to al Qaeda members. We are spending our time beating down the Taliban which continue to emerge stronger than ever whenever we reduce our presence in any specific area.

Stephen Carter's overview covers the confusion associated with the Obama position. Surely, it makes no sense to me. It is all so depressing!