Answer
"Afraid to say" refers to a phrase reportedly uttered by General Stanley McChrystal, as revealed by journalist Michael Hastings in a 2010 Rolling Stone article. The comment expressed McChrystal's frustration with the limitations imposed by civilian leaders and the slow pace of decision-making in the war in Afghanistan. It highlighted tensions between military leaders and civilian oversight, sparking controversy and leading to McChrystal's resignation as commander of U.S.