I think we only have two options in Afghanistan. Either use real force to crush the Taliban (which is easier said than done since they hide away among civilians and often outside of Afghanistan), or leave the mess behind. Both options seem to be bad for us.
We either take a lot of casualties fighting the fight (and don't forget about all the collateral damage and the big press it makes) or we admit that we have been defeated and go home. Giving back the responsibility to the Afghans and leaving will have the same effect as leaving right now. Maybe the Taliban will need a little longer to re-establish themselves but I don't doubt for a minute that they will eventually after Nato has pulled out.
Well, there might be a third option but that would require too much money. Give the Afghans a economical perspective. Build up some industry there that creates jobs. I believe that great amounts of resources have just been found in Afghanistan. Let them exploit them themselves so that some money gets into the country (why am I so convinced that this isn't going to happen and that some western companies will make all the profit....).
With a blooming economy the money that the Taliban offer might become less attractive.
