The failure in Afghanistan

The rise in Islamic militancy can be see after the Soviet Union left Afghanistan. The Afghan resistance actually feel that they caused the downfall of the Soviet empire. I do not have space to go into that here but if you are so inclined read Ghost Wars. The UK defense minister makes an excellent point in saying that if NATO leaves Afghanistan it will have far reaching consiquences not only for the region ie Pakistan but Islamic militancy will be able to point to a victory over the west and would prompt further attacks.