The overall situation in Afghanistan, like that of Iraq last year, is grave and deteriorating. Violence is up by 27% in the country since 2006, there were a total of 140 suicide bombings throughout 2007 (as compared to 5 between 2001 and 2005), poppy growth is at an all time high, and 2007 marked the deadliest year for U.S. and allied troops since 2001. Meanwhile, the Afghan government remains unable to provide for its own people. "Afghanistan remains a failing state. It could become a failed state," concludes a report released yesterday by the former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, General James Jones.
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