Operation Enduring Freedom
Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) was the official name used by the U.S. government for the War in Afghanistan, which began on October 7, 2001, following the September 11 attacks in the United States. This military operation was part of the broader Global War on Terrorism, aimed at dismantling Al-Qaeda and removing the Taliban from power in Afghanistan.
Background
- The operation was initiated in response to the September 11 Attacks, where Al-Qaeda, under the leadership of Osama bin Laden, was believed to be responsible.
- The Taliban, who controlled most of Afghanistan at the time, refused to extradite bin Laden, leading to the military intervention.
Objectives
- Disrupt the use of Afghanistan as a base for terrorist operations against the United States and its allies.
- Remove the Taliban from power.
- Prevent Al-Qaeda from gaining a foothold in Afghanistan.
- Stabilize Afghanistan and establish a democratic government.
Operation Phases
- Initial Invasion (2001-2002): The operation began with an extensive air campaign, followed by ground operations involving U.S. special forces, CIA operatives, and the Northern Alliance, an Afghan opposition group.
- Subsequent Phases: The focus shifted from direct combat to counter-insurgency, nation-building, and training Afghan security forces.
- Expansion: Operation Enduring Freedom expanded to include operations in other countries like the Philippines, Horn of Africa, and the Trans-Sahara region.
Key Events
- Battle of Mazar-i-Sharif: A significant early victory by the Northern Alliance with U.S. support.
- Fall of Kabul: Kabul was captured by the Northern Alliance on November 13, 2001.
- Operation Anaconda: A large-scale operation in March 2002 to flush out Al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters in the Shahi-Kot Valley.
- Battle of Tora Bora: An attempt to capture or kill bin Laden, who reportedly escaped.
Outcomes and Legacy
- The Taliban were removed from power, but they later regrouped, leading to a prolonged insurgency.
- The operation laid the groundwork for the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
- The mission evolved into Operation Freedom's Sentinel in 2015 as the U.S. shifted its focus to advising and assisting Afghan forces.
Controversies and Criticisms
- The long-term impact on Afghan civilian life, including casualties and displacement.
- Allegations of civilian casualties due to airstrikes.
- Criticism over the use of drone strikes and the handling of detainees at facilities like Guantanamo Bay.
- The ongoing cost, both in terms of financial expense and human life.
Sources
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