MOD Fears Face Saving Exit From Afghanistan

The MoD now fears that the Afghan National Army (ANA) could be seen as "an occupying force" in parts of the country when Isaf leaves, as it does not have enough ethnic Pashtuns from the south among its ranks. The Defence Secretary, Liam Fox, has been warned that Afghanistan's long-term security will depend on persuading neighbouring countries, including Pakistan and Iran, to help stabilise the administration of President Hamid Karzai.When we first heard about the 2015 date, we were mortified," a senior MoD source told The IoS. "It wasn't part of the plan as far as we were concerned. We have since fallen in behind it but it will be a face-saving withdrawal. Nobody thinks it is going to be perfect when we leave. It is just a case of getting out of there. Read More.