I don't know how dangerous this semi-permanent base is for the Marines. Unlike Viet Nam, the immediate area around Kandahar is relatively flat, and almost without vegetation. So any attempts to surround the base, or even move towards it, will be met with withering aerial support, as apparently happened already yesterday.
The real danger won't come until the Marines move into the city itself. Hopefully, before that happens, there will be enough non-Taliban Pashtun emerging, (or whatever the hell you call them), plus enough Taliban turncoats to take up the securing of the city, allowing the Marines to stay away.
Looks like the future politics could get pretty crazy, however, with old tribal leaders assuming original seats of power, creating opportunities for more madness down the road. Guess we can't do everything for them!
Hard to believe that in the year 2001, "tribal" issues could be such a strong factor inhibiting a move toward unity after 20+ years of war.
Regards,.
Knip |
