A Blog Called Hope

Senator Reed and Senator Obama arrive in the Middle East to discuss terrorism and the United States’ role in the region

Yesterday, Senator Barack Obama met with Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai to pledge his support to the Afghani government with their ongoing struggle with al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters. Senator Obama reinforced his position that winning the battle in Afghanistan, coupled with finding al-Qaeda leadership in the region, are major linchpins in winning the war on terror.

Senator Obama, Senator Reed, and Senator Hagel (R-NE) released a joint statement about the trip and our country’s role in helping combat terrorism in the conflict ravaged region and across the globe.

“Our message to the Afghan government is this: We want a strong partnership based on ‘more for more’ — more resources from the United States and NATO, and more action from the Afghan government to improve the lives of the Afghan people. We need a sense of urgency and determination. We need urgency because the threat from the Taliban and al-Qaida is growing and we must act; we need determination because it will take time to prevail. But with the right strategy and the resources to back it up, we will get the job done.” -Sen. Obama, Sen. Reed, Sen. Hagel, June 20, 2008.

In between touring Afghanistan and meeting local leaders and U.S. troops, Senator Obama found time to sit down and speak to “Face the Nation”. To view his interview, click on the video below.

As well, early this morning the three Senators landed in Iraq to meet with Iraqi PM al-Maliki. The group will discuss the Iraq War and a timetable for U.S. withdrawal; a move al-Maliki has publicly supported.

For more information on Obama and Reed’s trip, visit the Washington Post, CNN, or Associated Press.