More Troops Needed to Avoid Failed Mission

While President Obama reassesses his focus on al-Qaida, top U.S. commander Gen. Stanley McChrystal says send more troops or we fail in Afghanistan. "Resources will not win this war, but under resourcing could lose it." McChrystal says an increased number of troops should be priority and the need of an amended approach should be considered. "Although considerable effort and sacrifice have resulted in some progress, many indicators suggest the overall effect is deteriorating. We run the risk of strategic defeat by pursuing tactical wins that cause civilian casualties or unnecessary collateral damage. The insurgents cannot defeat us militarily, but we can defeat ourselves," he wrote in a 66 page report sent to Defense Secretary Robert Gates on August 30.

President Obama is now reviewing the report and reevaluating his methods with detailed focus. In an interview, Sunday, President Obama said the correct strategic approach is vital. "Are we doing the right thing? Are we pursuing the right strategy?" The issue of the war has the house divided. Republicans require more military services to turn around a war that's going into its ninth year and the Democrats are a little more reluctant in their desires to send more troops. Obama, on Sunday, said he will not allow politics to regulate his judgment.