Does the threat from al Qaeda justify a major escalation in Central Asia?

Foreign Policy by Stephen M. Walt | Apr. 7, 2009 (Opinion)
The Afpak muddle (part 2)

Does the threat of international terrorism -- specifically al Qaeda -- justify a costly, long-term engagement in Afghanistan and Pakistan? President Obama and his advisors think so, but I'm still not convinced. I certainly understand that we have a terrorism problem; I just don't believe that it is serious enough to warrant the level and type of effort the administration is proposing. And if the results of the recent NATO summit are any indication, our ... Full Story »

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Fabrice Florin
3.7
 by Fabrice Florin - Apr. 10, 2009

Original article by Harvard University Professor Stephen M. Walt about what he calls the Afpak muddle. The author argues thoughtfully that 'the threat from al Qaeda does not justify increasing our military presence in Afghanistan, and certainly does not justify major military operations in Pakistan.' He cites factual evidence and helpful context to support his points, which are presented in a responsible way.

The threat from al Qaeda does not justify increasing our military presence in Afghanistan, and certainly does not justify major military operations in Pakistan.

Harvard University Professor Stephen M. Walt

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