IA-Forum Interview: David Kilcullen -- International Affairs ForumInternational Affairs Forum: You define counterinsurgency (COIN) theory as “a competition with the insurgent for the right and the ability to win the hearts, minds and acquiescence of the population. Injudicious use of firepower creates blood feuds, homeless people and societal disruption that fuels the insurgency. For your side to win, the people must respect you, accept that your actions benefit them, and trust your ability to deliver on promises, particularly regarding their security. In this battlefield popular perceptions and rumor are more influential than the facts and more powerful than a hundred tanks.” What are the battlefield perceptions and rumors in Afghanistan today?
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