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December 12, 2011

U.S. Special Ops Back Controversial Afghan Military Training Program 
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The Wall Street Journal reports the commander of U.S. Special Operations
Forces has backed the rapid expansion of a program to train and arm
local Afghan militias despite criticism from human-rights groups. Adm.
William Mc Raven also said the number of Special Operations forces in
Afghanistan could expand in the coming year while conventional forces
withdraw. Meanwhile the U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan confirmed
Saturday U.S. combat troops could stay in Afghanistan beyond the 2014
deadline set by the White House. Ambassador Ryan Crocker said U.S.
troops would stay longer if requested by the Afghan government. The war
in Afghanistan is already the longest war in U.S. history.



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