WASHINGTON - February 18 - Today President Barack Obama approved plans to deploy roughly 17,000 troops to Afghanistan in the coming spring and summer. The new administration has yet to complete its review of US strategy in Afghanistan, leading some experts to believe this move is premature.

"This overreliance on military force has a long and consistent track record of failure in Afghanistan, and President Obama should complete his strategy review for Afghanistan before risking more American and Afghan lives," stated Rebecca Griffin, Political Director of Peace Action West.  "More U.S. troops are likely to lead to more civilians killed and wounded. These casualties damage the standing of the United States, strengthen our adversaries, and undermine the Afghan government."

In spite of the US's heavy investment in the "war on terror" since 2001, Al Qaeda has increased its activity around the world.

Ms. Griffin argues for a wholly new approach to creating security in Afghanistan and fighting terrorism. "Last year, the RAND Corporation released a report showing that police and intelligence work are far more effective in fighting terrorism. Secretary Gates himself has also pointed out that the civilian instruments of national security, like diplomacy and development aid, are deeply underfunded. The Obama administration needs to follow through on his promise of a truly improved approach in Afghanistan that will mean smarter investments in American security."

You can read more of Peace Action West's policy recommendations on Afghanistan at http://www.peaceactionwest.org/agendaforpeace