The war in Afghanistan will have no clear and definitive "win" for the United States. It is, in fact, coming to a pitiable close slowly but surely. Most people know this. Seven out of 10 Americans believe the war will end badly. Only the Obama administration is out of the loop.
Interviewed about the war on "Meet the Press," Gen. David Petraeus talked evasively and in circles about delivering on the president's policy. He was unable to make one distinctly positive comment about how we're doing at nation-building, about the worth of the government we're supporting, about the commitment of the people we're trying to save or about how this war will end. It was a sad replay of exactly the kind of thinking we heard during the Vietnam War.
Once upon a time, someone suggested creating a Peace Department in our government. If only Obama would truly, and finally, inaugurate such a change. Imagine the two options.
Defense: Mobilize against evildoers as they arise. Ally with corrupt governments if necessary to kill/defeat evildoers in battle using costly arms, our soldier's lives and health, and vast amounts of national wealth. Nation-build to achieve as close to our own image as possible.
Peace: Put some national wealth to work mobilizing alliances in advance that will inhibit the rise of evildoers. Do this by providing incentives for accountability in governments in return for our collaboration to help provide for the needs and security of their people. Recognize and honor cultural differences.
The killing machine debating Pollyanna perhaps. But at least the two approaches would be talking and advocating about policy direction for real long-term wins.
Jima Rice
Ketchum
