Inflaming the political sore

Government authorities continue to misread the origins and purpose of insurgents and terrorists, often contributing to their growth in strength and numbers. But a better understanding to improve policy could require occupying powers to acknowledge their own mistakes, shortcomings and increasing unpopularity with the people. 

AFTER decades of monumental waste, unnecessary expense and lost opportunity known as the Cold War, some important lessons remain stubbornly unlearned. Disputes are still eagerly misrepresented by narrow self-interest or rigid ideology to worsen tension and conflict.