text: Chapter 1
  understanding of the wider operational and strategic consequences of their actions. While tactical missions
  are essential, commanders ensure that tactical missions support the overall objectives to defeat the
  insurgency.
  SUPPORT THE HOST NATION
  1-92. In the situation of U.S. and multinational forces committed to assisting a host-nation government
  with its counterinsurgency strategy, the long-term goal is to leave a government able to stand by itself. In
  the end, the host nation has to win on its own. Achieving this requires development of viable local leaders
  and institutions. External assistance can help, but host-nation authorities must accept responsibilities to
  achieve real victory. Depending upon the condition of the host-nation government (failed, failing, or
  viable), a robust whole-of-government approach is critical to enabling that government to accept those
  responsibilities. In a failed or failing state, there may be no functioning government or national economy.
  The counterinsurgent, therefore, will be forced to create institutions necessary to provide governance and
  support economic development. While it may be easier for U.S. military units to conduct operations
  themselves, it is better to work to strengthen local forces and institutions and then assist them. Host-nation
  governments have the final responsibility to solve their own problems. Eventually all foreign armies are
  seen as interlopers or occupiers. The sooner the decisive effort can transition to host-nation institutions
  without unacceptable degradation, the better.