Argument: Defeat in Afghanistan would embolden terrorists globally

Support

“Obama’s war. Why the Afghanistan war deserves more resources, commitment and political will.” The Economist. October 15, 2009: “defeat for the West in Afghanistan would embolden its opponents not just in Pakistan, but all around the world, leaving it open to more attacks.”

Bruce Riedel and Michael O’Hanlon. “Why we can’t go small in Afghanistan”. USA Today. September 4, 2009: “being able to claim victory against the United States and its allies, would make organization, training and communication far easier for bin Laden and his cronies.”