US Strategy in Afghanistan and South Asia

Subsequent to US President, Donald J Trump's speech on August 22, 2017, spelling out a new strategy for Afghanistan and the region, a number of articles and analysis are being written. Some important points of the speech include the following:

• Three fundamental conclusion about America’s core interests in Afghanistan. 
  First, US must seek an honorable and enduring outcome worthy of the tremendous sacrifices that have been made, especially the sacrifices of lives.
  Second, the consequences of a rapid exit are both predictable and unacceptable. A hasty withdrawal would create a vacuum for terrorists, including ISIS and Al Qaeda, would instantly fill just as happened before Sept. 11. In 2011, America hastily and mistakenly withdrew from Iraq. As a result, our hard-won gains slipped back into the hands of terrorist enemies. The vacuum so created by leaving too soon gave safe haven for ISIS to spread, to grow, recruit and launch attacks. US cannot repeat in Afghanistan the mistake the leaders made in Iraq.
  Third, the security threats faced in Afghanistan and the broader region are immense. Today, 20 U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organizations are active in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the highest concentration in any region anywhere in the world.
• Increase in number of US troops in Afghanistan - number not mentioned
• US presence in Afghanistan is not for "nation building" rather to kill the "terrorists." America will continue its support for the Afghan government and the Afghan military as they confront the Taliban in the field. Ultimately, it is up to the people of Afghanistan to take ownership of their future, to govern their society and to achieve an everlasting peace.
• Pakistan is having safe havens and housing terrorists despite being paid billions of dollar in aid. "No partnership can survive a country’s harboring of militants and terrorists who target U.S. service members and officials. It is time for Pakistan to demonstrate its commitment to civilization, order and to peace."
• America would further develop its strategic partnership with India, the world’s largest democracy and a key security and economic partner of the United States.
• A core pillar of new strategy is a shift from a time-based approach to one based on conditions. He said, “Conditions on the ground, not arbitrary timetables, will guide our strategy from now on.”
• Use of all instruments of national power - integration of all instruments of American power - diplomatic, economic, and military - toward a successful outcome.
• Promise to provide army the necessary tools and rules of engagement to make this strategy work, and work effectively, and work quickly.
• NATO allies and global partners would be asked to support the new strategy, with additional troop and funding increases in line with US. 

Full Text of the speech.