Proxy battles are the best

In both Afghanistan and Iraq, our allies are carrying the fight to the bad guys: "Top officials in Afghanistan say local and NATO-led forces have driven Taliban militants from a troubled southern district, one day after a joint anti-insurgent offensive was launched. But NATO officials say they cannot immediately confirm Afghan claims of killing hundreds militants or if the area is now free of Taliban fighters." "Iraqi security forces launched an offensive Thursday against Shiite militants in a southeastern province that borders Iran, the government said. The operation aims to 'impose the law and confront outlaws', said Maysan province police Col. Mehdi al-Asadi. The government is trying to stamp out militants and establish its authority in Shiite-dominated areas, particularly the oil-rich south, where rival Shiite militias have been battling for control. The U.S. military said this week that the Amara push is "an Iraqi-initiated and -led operation. Coalition forces will provide support, as needed, much as they have in operations in and around Basra."

Rico says if this keeps up, we may actually be able to start bringing the boys (and girls) home in time for the election...