Afghanistan: The State of America's Longest War

The video discusses the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, highlighting the control of major cities by the government, the presence of foreign troops, and the financial costs of the war. It compares current conditions to past decades, noting improvements despite ongoing violence. The discussion also covers the challenges faced by the Afghan government, the mission's goals post-911, and the complexities of negotiating with the Taliban. Trust issues with Pakistan and the Taliban are also explored.

What is the approximate number of foreign troops currently supporting the Afghan army and police?

• 10,000

• 35,000

• 15,000

• 20,000

How does the current situation in Afghanistan compare to the 1980s and 1990s?

• There is more violence now than before.

• The Afghan government has less control over major cities now.

• The Taliban has more control now than in the past.

• Life is substantially better now than in the 1980s and 1990s.

What was one of the main goals of the U.S. mission in Afghanistan post-9/11?

• To establish a new government in Afghanistan.

• To prevent attacks on U.S. soil by fighting the war in Afghanistan.

• To build a new economy in Afghanistan.

• To eliminate all Taliban forces.

What has been a significant challenge for the U.S. in its mission in Afghanistan?

• Insufficient support from NATO.

• Unclear mission objectives and whom to trust.

• Lack of military resources.

• Overwhelming support from the Afghan population.

What has been a point of division in the policy community regarding the U.S. mission in Afghanistan?

• Whether to involve other countries in the mission.

• Whether the mission was to defeat Al Qaeda and the Taliban or to focus on nation-building.

• Whether to increase or decrease troop numbers.

• Whether to focus on military or economic aid.