If we're talking national security we have to talk more than just destroying random terrorists, it's about nation building over there. Pure, plain, and simple
Afghanistan isthe most sought after nation in history, and there's virtually a civil war right now to try and oust the Taliban. As long as they're in power not only are Americans probably directly in danger but certainly countries such as Russia and other parts of Europe with huge Musilm populations as well.
It would be ridiculous to leave these people in the 14th century when they have the potential to be the most modernized and forward looking country of this important region.
No offense to the Afghani people, but the country having the potential of being the most modernized in the region is highly unlikely (like 99.9%).
"The economy of Afghanistan has improved significantly since 2002 due to the infusion of multi-billion dollars in international assistance and investments,as well as remittances from Afghan expats.It is also due to dramatic improvements in agricultural production and the end of a four-year drought in most of the country. However, Afghanistan still remains one of the poorest and least developed countries in the world that is highly dependent on foreign aid. The nation's GDP stands at about $27 billion with an exchange rate of $15 billion, and the GDP per capita is about $900."
About 35 percent of its population is unemployed and live below the poverty line, suffering from shortages of housing, clean drinking water, electricity and employment."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economy_of_Afghanistanbtw, the Karzai administration is in power not the Taliban. The Taliban control certain areas of the country and conduct terrorist attacks, etc but they dont control the entire country.
nation building is what the US/NATO have been trying to do in that country since they ousted the Taliban but its a tough battle , the country has many many ills and is constantly under attack by Taliban insurgents.
