The Taliban had stopped opium production for enough time to cause a heroin drought felt worldwide and achieved more than any western government initiative in terms of driving users to weaning off treatments like methadone – now it's more than ever as they have not developed their oil and gas resources for their own development and the central govt does little for the rural population – so factor that social cost into the cost of the war.
Also the Taliban had almost eliminated rape in the areas they controlled, a shocking statistic now as before the Taliban – OK the women couldn't dress like tarts and play the field but factor that social cost into the cost of the war.
Particularly Iraq but also Afghanistan: defeating a standing army/force and replacing central government (very quick in case of Iraq and Sergio di Mello, the UN good guy, wanted the US to withdraw then, before he was killed in his office in an area secured by the Americans) would not have had the effect of grinding the infrastructure and will of the people into the dirt as has happened with this extended occupation – nor would it have allowed the opportunity of liquidating potential leaders that has undoubtedly been going on – nor would it have sickened the populace from tolerating any further sabre rattling against any external foe. Thus the long operation has been totally successful at neutralising two potential enemies of any pro western country in the region – there is one – hope it appreciates our efforts and sacrifice.
