Alex Strick van Linschoten is a software engineer based in Delft who has developed Ekko, an open-source framework designed to help developers implement realtime infrastructure and message processing in web applications. With expertise in Ruby, JavaScript, Go, PostgreSQL, AWS, and Docker, Alex has a diverse background in software development. In addition to his engineering skills, he holds a PhD in History and has authored books on his research in Afghanistan. Currently, Alex is employed as an ML Engineer at ZenML.

The article challenges the perception of the Haqqani network as an uncompromising and ideologically rigid enemy in the context of the Afghan conflict. It references statements by Michael T. Flynn of the Defense Intelligence Agency and Graeme Lamb, a former British Special Air Service commander, to argue that the Haqqani group's leaders are pragmatic and open to reconciliation. The article discusses instances of the Haqqanis engaging in talks with Afghan, American, and Western officials, and criticizes American military tactics in Afghanistan and Pakistan, suggesting they may be counterproductive. It also warns that designating the Haqqanis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (F.T.O.) could harm U.S.-Pakistan relations and hinder the reconciliation process.

The U.S. designation of the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network as a foreign terrorist organization is criticized for limiting future political options and making a comprehensive settlement harder to achieve. The article argues that labeling the Haqqanis as terrorists will deter them from negotiating and be seen as insincerity by the Taliban. It questions the view of the Haqqanis as irreconcilable enemies, citing statements from military officials suggesting they are open to reconciliation.

The article describes the harrowing experience of visiting Mogadishu, highlighting the city's extreme danger and desolation compared to Kandahar. It details the challenges faced by the local population, including severe injuries and inadequate medical care, and the ongoing conflict involving the African Union, al-Shabab insurgents, and Somalia's nominal government. The narrative underscores the dire situation in Mogadishu and draws parallels with the conflict in Afghanistan, emphasizing the complexities of war and the impact on civilians.

The article provides a vivid account of life in Kandahar, Afghanistan, amidst frequent bombings and violence. The authors, two Westerners living in Kandahar without heavy security, describe the city's desensitization to attacks and the daily reality of living under the threat of violence. They recount their experiences and observations, including the cultural aspects of Kandahar, the impact of the conflict on the local population, and the complex relationship between the Taliban, the local government, and the people. The authors also reflect on the broader implications of the conflict for NATO and the international community, emphasizing the disconnect between security efforts in cities and the ongoing violence in rural areas. They highlight the resilience and pragmatism of the Pashtun tribal system and the challenges of achieving lasting security and political consensus in such an environment.

The article provides an in-depth look at life in Kandahar amidst ongoing conflict, highlighting the constant threat of violence and the resilience of its residents. It discusses the impact of the war on daily life, the presence and influence of the Taliban, and the challenges faced by foreign military forces and the Kabul government. The authors share personal experiences and observations from their time living in Kandahar, emphasizing the complexities and nuances of the situation. The narrative underscores the pervasive sense of uncertainty and the difficulty of achieving lasting peace in the region.

The article provides a detailed account of the 2009 Afghan election in Kandahar, highlighting low voter turnout, instances of fraud, and improper practices. It describes the violence and security measures, noting that the threat of violence was not the primary reason for low turnout but rather voter apathy. The author criticizes the role of international organizations and the Afghan government in managing the election, suggesting that the process was marred by significant irregularities and fraud. The article concludes with a pessimistic outlook on the future, indicating that the hoped-for change did not materialize and that the election results would likely be validated despite the evident flaws.

With the Afghan elections approaching, political rallies in Kandahar reveal the dynamics and aspirations of the region's young generation. Abdullah Abdullah's rally, marked by low security and a lackluster crowd, focused on his Pashtun identity and criticisms of Karzai. Ashraf Ghani's rally, characterized by strong support from the young and educated, emphasized change and criticized the current administration's corruption. A subsequent rally for Karzai, organized by his half-brother Ahmed Wali Karzai, showcased state power but was seen as insincere. The rallies highlight the challenges and hopes of Kandahar's populace, with a general sentiment against the current regime and a desire for genuine reform.

Kandahar, once a stopover on the hippy trail, has become a city marked by violence and instability. The author describes the daily challenges of living under the threat of kidnappings and bombings, with a significant increase in violent incidents since 2006. Local journalism struggles to capture the full picture, often reacting to events rather than providing comprehensive coverage. The upcoming elections, heavily funded by foreign entities, are expected to proceed despite widespread skepticism about their fairness. The city's residents, including educated Kandaharis and tribal elders, are increasingly fearful, with many seeking refuge in Kabul or abroad.