The political realities, and time it took to position sufficient military resources required to do what is being done now, Tom.

It takes time, and political capitol to position an effective ground force. Time to move them, political capitol to find a place to move them to.

Look at how long it took to transport the Military force to assault Iraq. Moving millions of tons of supplies and thousands of men takes time, especially when the area is so distant, and isolated.

While I dislike politics dictating military strategies and the Order of Battle. The truth is that, invariably, politics do just that.

We had to let the local forces look good, and take the brunt of initial assault. Just like we let the French enter Paris in WW II before we did, even though we could have easily gotten there first.

Yes, we have been used to settle local disputes, nothing new in that.
Also a lot of Taliban and al Queida members either bribed or called on family ties to escape into uncontrolled areas. That is not new either.

But we have learned, and we have more people on the ground who can verify intelligence reports. Though there will be more mistakes.

Now we get down to the short hairs, the majority of the enemy has gathered in areas concentrated enough for a conventional effort. I.E someone has to go in and get them out. Local forces are willing, and in many cases will be able to do the job. But when it gets real hairy, and special training and equipment are needed, then U.S, and other nations spec/ops will have to do it. (I noted there is a contingent of Swedish SOF in country, them guys are very good, as good as our own.)