NOT JUST IN WASHINGTON: In Washington, War Fatigue Is Setting In.

In the wake of more pressing foreign policy challenges, including North Korea’s missile program and the Syrian civil war, the war in Afghanistan has become a lower priority for the United States. Should Washington give in to its war fatigue and pull its troops out of Afghanistan, it’s unclear just how big the drawdown would be. Either way, the presence of fewer troops will force the United States to turn to other measures, such as a greater emphasis on special operations forces and drone strikes, to maintain in its missions in Afghanistan. If, on the other hand, the Pentagon succeeds in sending more troops, the increase will still be only modest, suggesting the United States is interested in conflict management rather than conflict resolution. Regardless of the path the Trump administration chooses, none seem designed to successfully end the war as it rapidly approaches its 16th year.

On December 7, 1941, the US military was under-sized, badly-equipped compared to its enemies, and woefully under-experienced. Less than four years later, Germany and Japan lay in ruins, and wholly or partially occupied by American forces.

Nazi Germany. Imperial Japan. The Taliban.

One of these things is not like the other — in part because we failed to apply the necessary force. If for whatever reason we’re unable or unwilling to do so, then I’m not sure what we hope to accomplish after more than a decade and a half.

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