Progress in Afghanistan: The American Public Is Missing the Story

Calandra Vargas / March 25, 2011

General David Petraeus testified before Congress last week that progress is being made on the ground in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, American public support for the war is at an all time low.

In the Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on March 15, the mood was generally optimistic. General Petraeus expressed the need for a continued commitment to the counter-insurgency strategy that is proving effective.

U.S. strategy in Afghanistan is not only centered on military actions to eradicate al-Qaeda and Taliban safe havens; it is designed to build the infrastructure and democratic civil society of a war-torn nation. The transition process starts this spring as stable areas are placed in full control of Afghan security forces. Aiding Pakistan–Afghan relations was also highlighted as being key to securing regional stability. (more…)