"Conflict carpets" are a phenomenon that seems unique to Afghanistan. When I first arrived in Kabul in September 2003, all the carpet merchants were displaying these rugs outside their shops. It seems that they believed the rugs would show sympathy and solidarity with the American people - and that they would make some well-needed bucks off of selling them to American soldiers, aid-workers and the like. What they didn't factor in was western taste, and the fact that most Americans wouldn't want something like this hanging on their wall.

The rugs are still there, but now are hiding in the backs of the carpet stalls - and can be had for a song.

Another style of conflict carpet - one with tanks, AK-47's and the like - probably dates back to the Soviet occupation. These are also readily available, and probably a bit more marketable than the twin towers version. (Jim Heilman, June 29, 2005)