“We finally have a plan”

The goal is to “disrupt, dismantle, and defeat Al-Qaeda and its safe havens in Pakistan and Afghanistan and prevent its return in either country,” said Denis McDonough, the White House Deputy Security Adviser of Communication. He outlined the United States goal in Afghanistan, which was the culmination of 60 days of strategic planning. Also, he attributed the regression in Afghan security to an over-investment in Iraq and a lack of a long term strategy by the previous administration.

Additionally, Mr. McDonough referred to President Obama’s claim that “this (the problem in Afghanistan) is a regional challenge that we ought to confront together.” New high level talks between these three nations have already begun due to the work of special representative to Pakistan and Afghanistan Richard Holbrooke and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Mr. McDonough stressed the need for the United States to work with and support the democratic Pakistani government.

However, security will not be achieved without the creation of jobs and infrastructure within Afghanistan, and bi-partisan legislation, such as the Kerry-Lugar bill, which will increase American support for the Pakistani government for the next ten years. Thus, all aspects of national power are being used to resolve the issue. Finishing his statement, Mr. McDonough discussed how the Obama Administration will increase the budget for the Inspector General in order to ensure accountability and transparency for American expenditures.

After McDonough outlined the United States policy, Cailtin Hayden, Deputy Security Adviser of Communication, discussed how this plan will ensure the “number one goal of the United States government, the security of the American people.” Ms. Hayden emphasized how the United States military needs to work closely with the Afghan security forces in order to mentor them. Also, she referenced how the Obama Administration committed 4,100 more troops to the region on top of the 17,000 sent earlier this year. Lastly, she stressed how the only way to increase Afghan security is to increase spending to spur economic growth, which this plan contains.

McCain accused of fueling anti-Americanism

Sen. John McCain’s opposition to a withdrawal from Iraq, a move supported by the Iraqi government, was criticized in a conference call held by the Obama campaign. Moderator Denis McDonough said McCain discourages Iraqis from becoming self-sufficient and questioned how McCain plans to end the war without letting Iraq defend itself.

Former Secretary of the Navy Richard Danzig said McCain must explain to Iraqis and Americans why he stands in opposition to the majority viewpoints held in each country. Danzig stated that war is fought to bring peace and questioned how peace can prevail when Iraqis are ignored. He said fundamentalists are able to support their anti-American claims that the United States means to establish itself in the region through McCain’s anti-withdrawal stance. Danzig continued, saying that diversion in Iraq hinders the United States’s success in the global War on Terror.

Major General Geoffrey Lambert, (USA, Ret.) said increased oil revenues and a new confidence stemming from Iraqi forces’ greater capabilities have led to Iraq’s support of a withdrawal schedule. Lambert stated that these signs are encouraging and should be supported by the United States.