I can't imagine this ever not having been an expectation both from the HN or US sides after going in.

To me it seems to make sense that from the perspective of the Coalition you don't invest the time, money, and resources most importantly human and otherwise and not expect to make sure it wasn't all in vain or at least in long term benefit to yourselves. And from the HN side why would you not want those who helped you get where you are to stick around long enough to keep everybody else from taking advantage of your weakened state.

As far as the populace go I would guess as long as things continue changing in one form or another they will act based on how it affects them at their local levels more than based on any large scale changes.

As time goes by I could see them caring more about the upper echelon leaders.