> I think in Afghanistan's case, the goal was clear but it was not achievable. I suspect some people thought it was achievable because they looked at post-WW2

> I think in Afghanistan's case, the goal was clear but it was not achievable. I suspect some people thought it was achievable because they looked at post-WW2 Germany and Japan and concluded that: 1. Cities reduced to rubble in a war with America and its allies. 2. Lengthy occupation, plenty of money & loans for rebuilding. 3. Occupation transitions to an democratic government. Some American forces stick around just in case, but they don't have to fight anyone. 4. ???? 5. Successful, stable, western-style democracy with an aversion to armed conflict, a strong economy and a renowned car manufacturing industry. Obviously it didn't actually work in Afghanistan or Iraq, but I can see how politicians surrounded by yes men and pro-war types might have thought they had an achievable plan.