There is a need today to reflect on the wise saying "Those who do not learn from history are destined to relive it."
Three times the British Army has entered Afghanistan, 1938, 1878 and 1919, all to no avail.
The Russians in 1979, with more than 100,000 troops, could not subdue the country and withdrew in 1986. So what hope have the 4,000 British troops?
With very little government money spent on education in Afghanistan it is left to the Taliban, safe in Pakistan, to run madrassas religious schools and so churn out a never-ending stream of mujahadeen holy warriors.
One warlord stated he was pleased the British had come because it made him very proud to fight them.
Nato or not, any government with an ounce of sense should keep its army well clear of the place.
J E PLUMTREE.
Wroughton
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