However, the Taliban may not even be in a position to oust Laden from distant tribal areas where he has bases. He's made deals with local leaders, many of whom, happy with the lucrative poppy, opium, and heroin trade, won't accept outside interference. While US attacks against Laden's bases may send a loud message to the world, they're unlikely to achieve their stated aim of destroying him. A more effective tactic might be to put a high price on his head, one that is sure to tempt many an Afghan warlord or commander. But this should be combined with a more active role in pressuring outside players to leave Afghanistan alone.
Afghans deserve the right to deal with their own problems.
The international community should only be involved in providing the country with a form of assistance that benefits the people rather than the constant power-mongering that has plagued the various leaderships since war began in 1978. Edward Girardet is a former special correspondent for the Monitor. Before bookmarking this page in your browser, click here . The Christian Science Publishing Society. All rights reserved.