In Afghanistan, the spread of Taliban violence in relatively peaceful north and west of the country has brought to fore the need for involving local warlords in security. Angered by Taliban attempt on his life on Sunday in western Herat city, Mohammed Ismael Khan, a former warlord and currently minister, stressed for the need of involvement of local experts in security matters. He was critical of international efforts to bring security in Afghanistan saying people like him are not being taken into consultation process to stem the rise of Taliban. Mr. Khan who fought against the Russians and the Taliban in nineties, asserted that he can ensure security in western Afghanistan within a year if given control and threatened not to continue in cabinet if security worsens further. Other warlords and tribal elders have also come out openly to fight against Taliban if they are provided with resources.<br/><br/>Forces of Dostum and another warlord Marshal Qasim Fahim were instrumental in removing Taliban from their northern stronghold after US attack in 2001. Recognizing their contributions, President Hamid Karzai has termed them nationalists who fought the Soviets and Taliban for their country and has chosen Marshal Fahim as one his Vice-Presidential nominees.<br/>