let's be honest about it: When it comes to Iraq and Afghanistan

[cali]

the war machine grinds on as steadfastly under Obama as it did under bush. Look, I'm glad to see that in some respects our foreign policy has improved for the better, but in this regard, there's been no improvement. We're still fighting two fruitless and expensive wars that kill thousands of innocent civilians.

Yes, I know Obama was clear about ramping up the Afghanistan war when he was campaigning. That doesn't make it any better a war.

It was wrong under bush and it's wrong under Obama.

[Soylent Brice]

1. war SUCKS. period.

serves no interest other than those who line their pockets as a result thereof.

[obliviously]

2. I see your period. And raise you an exclaimation point! N/T

[ixion]

3. agree 100%

kicked and recommended.

[Wapsie B]

4. What's maddening is that once we were in Iraq we were there to stay.

Let us not forget the 13 permanent bases in the works there. Afghanistan is an unwinnable situation. The Soviets found out long before us that it was better to cut the losses and get out.

[billyoc]

5. Children born this YEAR will be fighting there.

[yellowwood]

6. Thank You

I agree so much. The "war" was my main issue against the Bush Administration. I understand that we are so heavily involved in Iraq and Afghanistan that getting out quickly is not easy. But it is a hopeless situation, not one that we can "win."

I would like to see more of the people who used to speak out against out military policy. Moveon, for instance. They seem to have lost interest.

Meanwhile, we continue to waste blood and treasure.

I do commend President Obama for changing the militaristic tone of our rhetoric. He has improved our reputation in the world.

But we've got to get out of this.

[mmonk]

7. Unfortunately.

Hopefully it will be more limited in scope at some point though.

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

8. War is PR by other means.

Politicians, and generals, are loathe to admit that wars are lost. So, unfortunately, are the American people.

So, instead of ending them and facing an angry populace that has been deceived into fighting and paying for them, the politicians and generals continue them hoping for a miracle or playing CYA so they won't be blamed for the loss.

Obama and the Pentagon are now looking for a way out that will save face.

It's a helluva thing to kill and/or die for.

[timeforpeace]

9. I doubt we will ever leave Iraq. Think S Korea, Germany, Japan.