"There are currently about 87,000 U.S. forces in Afghanistan, a number expected to rise to 98,000 by the end of August.
Military officials expect insurgents to try and further step up the use of roadside bombs to increase NATO casualties in 2010. Following the announcement of the U.S. troop surge, insurgent leaders shifted from direct attacks to roadside bombs and other indirect assaults.
The insurgency has easy access to fighters, small arms and explosives for roadside bombs, the report notes, giving fighters a "robust means" to sustain military operations.
"A ready supply of recruits is drawn from the frustrated population, where insurgents exploit poverty, tribal friction, and lack of governance to grow their ranks," the report said.
The report also notes that insurgents' tactics are increasing in sophistication and the militants have also become more able to achieve broader strategic effects with successful attacks. The Taliban continue to use threats and targeted killings to intimidate the Afghan population.
At the same time, Taliban shadow governments, which can include courts and basic social services, have strengthened, undermining the authority of the Afghan government, according to the report." LA Times
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I'm tired of bitching about this. Just read this article in conjunction with the thing I posted about SF in Afghanistan. pl
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/washingtondc/la-fg-0429-us-afghan-20100429,0,3038681,full.story
