Obama announces 30,000 more troops in Afghanistan

Last night President Obama addressed the nation on his plan for the conflict in Afghanistan. Obama plans to send an additional 30,000 troops to Afghanistan at the very beginning of 2010. After 18 months, the troops will be brought home. He also promised to bring all troops home from Iraq by 2011. Obama’s reasoning for sending more troops to Afghanistan, however, is because he believes the security of our country is at stake. “These are the three core elements of our strategy,” said Obama, a”a military effort to create the conditions for a transition, a civilian surge that reinforces positive action, and an effective partnership with Pakistan.” Obama hopes this will destroy the Taliban and al Qaeda and bring back peace. He made a point in his speech to address Afghanistan and mentioned that it was not America’s intention or interest to occupy the country. “America seeks an end to this era of war and suffering,” said Obama. “We will seek a partnership with Afghanistan grounded in mutual respect—to isolate those who destroy; to strengthen those who build; to hasten the day when our troops will leave; and to forge a lasting friendship in which America is your partner, and never your patron.”