Editorial

The Franklin Times -
Editorial

As the conflict in Afghanistan enters its ninth year it is becoming clearer and clearer that the western world is failing. One would be hard pressed to look at this war-torn nation and conclude that progress is being made or that it is even possible. This is a land that has defeated every foreign force that has tried to control or change it.

It is a land governed by religious extremism, tribalism, warlords, and drug smugglers. Since bringing Karzai to power after the fall of the Taliban government, the United States has been unable to extend his power. Many analysts agree that while President of Afghanistan in name, Karzai's true power does not extend outside the capital of Kabul.

To complicate matters, the Taliban has reemerged. Supported by sympathetic Pashtuns in Pakistan's ungovernable frontier, this religious movement has reasserted its control over much of the countryside and drug trade. This has led to increasing violence throughout the country and has threatened to prevent the creation of a stable Afghanistan.

In response to these changing dynamics, the United States has reevaluated its military strategy in the country. President Obama and Defense Sec. Gates expanded the military operation and increased the number of troops in country. NATO, which officially has military command of all international forces, is growing wary of the extended military involvement. European nations seem increasingly unwilling to send more troops. Last Spring, Prime Minister Chaffins also announced that the Franklin States would expand its troop commitment. With nearly 3,000 troops now in country and unsteady progress questions arise. Should our commitment continue? What are the goals? What does success look like?

So, now the question for our nation is straightforward: does Franklin continue to commit military forces to Afghanistan?