Dear Dalit,
We cannot even think about downplaying the seriousness of any of the recent incidents in Afghanistan
. But it’s important that we don’t allow few regrettable incidents to overshadow what we have accomplished in Afghanistan. Our officials have not only apologized but steps are being taken to prevent these regrettable incidents from recurring. You state, “The bitter truth is that the Americans couldn't achieve any tangible success after a decade of bloodshed”. The truth is that the changes taking place today in Afghanistan were simply unimaginable a decade ago. ANSF are fast gaining the capability to independently protect the nation in accordance with the democratically elected Afghan government. You can rest assured that everything is moving according to the plan, and the U.S. is not in any rush to abort its plans in Afghanistan. The U.S has repeatedly voiced the importance of its regional partner and especially Pakistan. We share a common stance with Pakistan against terrorism and look to achieve common objectives in the region. Therefore, it is important for us to iron out the differences that could prevent us from achieving our common goals. Both nations have lost thousands of brave soldiers to the acts of terror on both sides of the border. It is important that we allow our common interests to prevail and work together to bring peace and stability to the region. We have also made our stance clear in regards to the peace negotiations. As Secretary of State Hillary Clinton clearly said about “the necessary outcomes of any negotiation: insurgents must renounce violence, abandon al Qaeda, and abide by the constitution of Afghanistan, including its protections for women and minorities. If insurgents cannot meet those red-lines, they will face continued and unrelenting assault."
MAJ Nevers,
DET, United States Central Command
U.S. Central Command