US Commission launches inquiry into Afghanistan war
A coterie of former US government officials and academics began an extensive examination of America’s 20-year war in Afghanistan on Friday. “Today we make history,” said Shamila N. Chaudhary, co-chair of the Afghanistan War Commission, as reported by the Washington Post. Congress tasks the 16-member bipartisan panel to determine what went wrong and what US […]
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A coterie of former US government officials and academics began an extensive examination of America’s 20-year war in Afghanistan on Friday.
“Today we make history,” said Shamila N. Chaudhary, co-chair of the Afghanistan War Commission, as reported by the Washington Post.
Congress tasks the 16-member bipartisan panel to determine what went wrong and what US leaders could do differently in future wars.
Their mandate includes policies and actions by four presidential administrations, the US military, the State Department, US allies, and various agencies.
The commission has 18 months to conduct its research and must deliver a final public report by August 2026.
Some members of Congress and Republicans have criticized the chaotic US withdrawal from Afghanistan.
The Republican-led House Foreign Affairs Committee is expected to deliver a final report on the withdrawal next month.
The war commission’s discussion on Friday featured former ambassadors, military officers, and CIA personnel as witnesses.
Colin F. Jackson, co-chair of the commission, aims to produce “a full, objective, rigorous, unvarnished, and unflinching account” of the US performance.
Witnesses highlighted issues like convoluted chains of command, personality clashes, and short tours of duty for commanding officers.
The commission will also examine the decision to invade Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks, the 2009 troop surge, negotiations with the Taliban delegation, and the withdrawal.
Shamila N. Chaudhary emphasized the lingering impact of the war, stating that while closure might not be possible for everyone, a space for civic discourse is needed.
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