Just a little while ago, President Obama revealed his new plan, in broad strokes, for Afghanistan. All in all, the plan makes sense. I do not see an abandonment of Afghanistan's development in favor of counter-terrorist activities, rather a realization that without a lasting framework, the region will have no other result but to slide back into chaos and a home for international terrorism.
This recognition that the future of stability in Central Asia is tied to our own national security interests is welcome. Many have argued, including an Air Force Major General, that a "loss" in Afghanistan would not seriously damage U.S. interests or security. Obama's statement has refuted that in at least the sitting administration's opinion. That's a good thing.
Michael Yon has already expressed disappointment. He feels that the increased troop levels aren't enough, and that the administration will have to make announcements of further increases in the future. That may be so; however, it's a good start, and it's not the best news.
The best news is twofold; first there is finally an acknowledgment, officially, of the role of good governance and corruption in the stability of Afghanistan. Secondly, there is the commitment, finally, to fully man the advisor effort in Afghanistan. These two critical pieces are so key in any potential strategy for success in Afghanistan that it cannot be stressed enough.
Pakistan is dealt with as sensibly as possible, and the engagement of the other Central Asian states is a new strategy that cannot do harm and may help in many ways.
Overall, this is a step in the right direction. Personally, I hope to play a part in it.
A deeper and ongoing look will undoubtedly follow, but that's my first take on it.
~Blue
Friday, March 27, 2009
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He can 'talk the talk', but can he 'walk the walk'? We'll be waiting for his next move...
ReplyDeleteI just hope that the nay-sayer's don't have as much influence on the American public as they did with the war in Iraq.
IMHO, it's going to be more than a few tough years ahead. Let's hope and pray the supporters far outweigh the doubting Thomas's. Especially in Washington.
Trust but verify. Were any better words spoken (aside from God)? Have a great weekend.
ReplyDelete"Pakistan is dealt with as sensibly as possible"
ReplyDeleteIn fact, "the core goal of the U.S. must be to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al Qaeda and its safe havens in Pakistan"
Good Commentary on the new policy Ole Blue. I went a bit more in depth on it: http://waronterrornews.typepad.com/home/2009/03/afghan-policy-review.html
ReplyDeleteI'm concerned that the "civilian surge" has been described as "hundreds" of agriculturalists & educators, held back by our "economic troubles."
I do hope that the plan is more than "window dressing," and more pertinently that stateside politics do not prevent necessary tactical decisions.
Education is certainly a key component to long term success. But well-diggers are more important that college kids trying to explain how to grow crops in the high desert to a stubborn people that have done it for centuries.
What Obama needs are some good strong NCO's that have been on the ground, care about Victory more than they care about his ego or the letter behind the name of the president.
The Thunder Run has linked to this post in the blog post From the Front: 03/31/2009 News and Personal dispatches from the front and the home front.
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