Afghanistan

[LittleGrizzly]

I certainly don't know of any solid evidence that the Taliban were supported by the US government - except perhaps through studiously ignoring them. Before 9-11 Islamicists barely figured on any administration's radar, which is possibly one reason that 9-11 happened. However, if you have any reliable links, I'm prepared to be proven wrong.

I know of what he's referring, apparently there was a deal in the works for the pipeline they are currently building in Afghanastan but the Taliban called it off so the pipeline was cancelled, can't remember where i heard that so ill leave the link for Bopa to get

I think Bin Laden is a useful PR icon at most, he possibly adds a bit of stardom to proceedings but most of these guys are very commited nutters, the loss of a useful PR icon will only slow them slightly... im sure they could replace him with a new guy as well

Big terrorist organisations survive leadership deaths... especailly one as spread out and fragmented as Al Qaeda

Edit: I think the much more important goal in Afghanastan was the destuction of AQ's training facilities and the removal of a safe haven....

I have to admit having paranoia boarding on conspiracy regarding both the pipeline and the poppy production...