Winning in Afghanistan

Introduction:

• This briefing is based on a trip to Afghanistan in November 2006.
   
• Most of the material is adapted, or taken directly, from expert briefings provided on an unclassified level. The opinions are the author’s.
   
• The rise in threat activity is serious, but must be kept in context.
   
• The challenges to be overcome a far less serious than in Iraq.
   
• The US and NATO scored important victories in 2006.
   
• The Bush Administration is already considering major increases in military and economic aid and limited increases in US forces.
   
• NATO commanders understand the problems and weaknesses in current NATO forces and rules of engagement, and are seeking to
  overcome them.