THE growing strength of the Afghan resistance ought to have brought home to the US and allies, shortly completing the eighth year of their turbulent occupation of Afghanistan, that they can neither hold their own for long nor peace could return to the country as long as they stay there. The fighting has, in fact, led to the spread of the militant phenomenon to the tribal region of Pakistan and the rest of the country, something US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has acknowledged. Her admission of the flawed American policy that allowed Al-Qaeda to move across the border into Pakistan proves an overwhelming majority of Pakistanis right, who believe that their country is a victim of the fall-out of US strategic designs in the region. Expressions of solidarity and "stronger partnership" with Pakistan are words, which hold little appeal for the nationalist-minded people, who are able to see them for what they are worth and scorn at them; they could perhaps impress the pliant ruling leadership. These words lack substance and are simply meant as a balm to the wounds inflicted by the daily acts of terrorism occurring across the whole country. For Muslim countries in the region - particularly Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan - it is a moment of reflection. With the American and foreign troops on the ground, widely regarded as a hostile presence, and the use of force, the circle of violence cannot be brought to an end. It is a poor judgement that pins the hope for success on a massive surge of troops. The idea tragically lacks historical perspective as well as the understanding that the pusillanimous public opinion back home would only like to hear of conquests but not encounter the sight of body bags. While the Afghan tradition of valour in defence of independence is legendary, the occupation armies lack the spirit of sacrifice. Daisycutters can pulverise mountains but have failed to kill the spirit of the Afghan people. It is a win-win situation for the resistance. A dispassionate assessment should inform the US that nothing goes in its favour. Sooner or later it has to leave. But who should fill the gap to calm down the situation in this society that prolonged outside intervention has made highly divisive? Here lies the test of political leaderships in Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan. The interests of these countries, located in and around this arc of raging turmoil, can be best served by acting in unison. Having common faith and traditions, they should sink their differences, whether sectarian or of another nature, and focus on a common future that ensures peace and prosperity. No doubt, each has ticklish issues to settle, which have been made intractable by continuous hostile foreign meddling. But joining hands and sitting together to work out solutions, beginning with Afghanistan, they can gradually overcome them.