I have not been satisfied with
Democratic efforts to link our adventure in Iraq to the deteriorating
situation in Afghanistan and to setbacks in our overall
counterterrorism strategy. Perhaps this somber assessment will help focus Democrats:
Henry Crumpton, the outgoing State Department terror
coordinator . . . [and] ex-CIA operative . . . told NEWSWEEK that a
worldwide surge in Islamic radicalism has worsened recently, increasing
the number of potential terrorists and setting back U.S. efforts in the
terror war. “Certainly, we haven't made any progress,” said Crumpton.
“In fact, we've lost ground.” He cites Iraq as a factor; the war has
fueled resentment against the United States.
For Democrats opposed to the Iraq war who still fear a backlash for
not being tough enough, advocating for more resources for the wars in
Afghanistan and against global terrorism has the dual benefit of
showing a stiff spine and pursuing the right policy. [Talking Points Memo: by Joshua Micah Marshall]