I am not conversant with the strategy or tactics adopted to take on the terrorists in Afghanistan beyond what is known from open sources.

To beat the terrorists at their game could be like what India has done in Kashmir.

Deployment on the Border to 'seal' (it can never be 100%) with a second line where there is an anti Infiltration obstacle system.

And thereafter there are troops to include para military in bases to operate against those terrorists who have infiltrated and reported to be in location by the locals.

It requires adequate troops and one wonders if the US and ISAF would commit that many troops or paramiltiary.

The advantage the US and ISAF is that they are cleared to use the air force and artillery. That would make a great difference.

One requires to defeat or contain the terrorists and send a message that it won't work before any political measures can be put in place successfully.