Interview Out of Afghanistan

READ MORE: 9/11, Iraq, 2006, Afghanistan, Israel
by Taylor Marsh

This morning on a special edition of my radio show I spoke with Scott Kesterson, the only imbedded U.S. photojournalist in Afghanistan. Special thanks to Amy at BlogTalkRadio who made the introduction and arrangements.

Scott and I talked about everything from Pakistan's role in thwarting Afghanistan's sovereignty, to the "two Talibans," which Scott believes is an important and completely misunderstood reality in this region of the world. In addition, we talked about culture and women's roles as well.

Iranian influence was an interesting part of the discussion and will surprise and confound many people. Scott articulates Iran's positive influence in some areas of Afghanistan, which, when juxtaposed against their anti Israel mania, reveals a much more complex leadership than most Americans appreciate or are willing to contemplate.

Scott also did a post today here at Huffington Post, which I hope you will read and watch if you haven't already.

I've got severals podcasts with Scott. Please take the time to listen to this man, as well as spread the word about his work. He's telling a story that is not being reported because of Iraq. He calls Afghanistan the "forgotten war," as do many others.

Scott also reminds us that the fight in Afghanistan is still very much about 9/11. Afghanistan was the righteous war to many of us, myself included. Some of our soldiers, National Guard and Special Forces continue to fight that fight. Scott's work highlights their heroism, as well as his own. It is a remarkable story.

Scott Kesterson - Interview from Afghanistan
Scott Kesterson - Pakistan's Role in Afghanistan
Scott Kesterson - Two Types of Taliban
Scott Kesterson - Dangers, then to Women & Culture
Scott Kesterson - Culture & Taliban in Government
Scott Kesterson - Role of the Photojournalist Today

- Taylor Marsh LIVE! can be heard from 6-7 pm eastern - 3-4 p.m pacific, Mon.-Thurs, with podcasts available.