I suppose that since July 2005 we have only had 2 terrorist in the UK (Glasgow and Exeter) both of which were classified as minor. So you could argue that our streets are pretty safe from International Terrorism
But here's a thought. Is that because instead of going to all the trouble of buying airline tickets, learning how to blend with Westerners and buy bomb making material in a foreign country, now all they have to do is pop outside the village hut, plant an IED or set up a sniper ambush, suppress the forces of imperialist aggression until they get bored, and be home in time for tea and heroin? No travel required, no risk of getting caught in a dreadful place like Glasgow Airport, we just line the targets up right on the door step for them.
We all scoffed at the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the years of getting picked off by the Mujahadeen, the mutual tit-for-tat atrocities and the final humiliating withdrawal. In 20 years time I would love to see how a description of our latest foray into Afghanistan looks any different to that of the Soviets, especially in terms of achieving any kind of Military Objectives.
The only thing we will be able to gain any kind of satisfaction from will be looking back at the sheer professionalism and dedication of the young (and not so young) Service men and women who selflessly and without question serve their country, with many of them paying the ultimate price or becoming severely injured.