The Long War: How not to get bogged down in Oilistan

"On our occupation, we need to consider three issues. Does our presence lead toward a sustainable result after our withdrawal? Can the occupation be maintained without turning a large part of the Afghan population and others against us? And can we afford it? I think the answer to all three is no." -- An Open Letter to President Obama by William R. Polk (The Nation dated 2009-10-19)