On May 1, 2021, the United States began its long-awaited withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan, ending nearly two decades of military presence in the country. The withdrawal, which is expected to be completed by September 11, 2021, marks the end of America’s longest war.
The US-led invasion of Afghanistan began in October 2001, in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The goal of the invasion was to overthrow the Taliban government and to capture or kill Osama bin Laden, the leader of al-Qaeda. The US-led coalition was successful in overthrowing the Taliban, but bin Laden was never found.
Since then, the US has maintained a presence in Afghanistan, with the goal of stabilizing the country and preventing it from becoming a safe haven for terrorists. Over the years, the US has provided billions of dollars in aid and military support to the Afghan government.
However, the war has been costly in terms of both lives and money. Over 2,400 US service members have been killed in Afghanistan, and the war has cost the US over $2 trillion.
The US and the Taliban signed a peace agreement in February 2020, which called for the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan. The agreement also called for the Taliban to reduce violence and to enter into negotiations with the Afghan government.
The withdrawal of US troops is a major milestone in the peace process. It is hoped that the withdrawal will lead to a lasting peace in Afghanistan and will allow the country to move forward.
The US withdrawal is also a reminder of the human cost of war. The war in Afghanistan has taken a heavy toll on the Afghan people, with thousands of civilians killed and millions displaced. It is hoped that the withdrawal of US troops will bring some measure of peace and stability to the country.