Afghanistan War 2001-2021: Longest US War — Reading Comprehension

The Afghanistan War from 2001 to 2021 was the longest military conflict in United States history. The war began after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The U.S. government, led by President George W. Bush, demanded that the Taliban government in Afghanistan hand over Osama bin Laden, the leader of al-Qaeda, who was responsible for the attacks. When the Taliban refused, the United States and its allies launched a military campaign to remove the Taliban from power and destroy al-Qaeda's network.

Multiple motivations drove the war. The U.S. wanted to prevent future terrorist attacks, protect national security, and support the creation of a stable Afghan government. However, the goals of American leaders sometimes conflicted with the hopes and needs of Afghan civilians. Many Afghans wanted peace and improved living conditions, while some viewed foreign troops as occupiers rather than liberators. Afghan women, in particular, experienced both opportunities and dangers as the Taliban's strict rules were challenged but violence increased.

The war's complexity grew as the conflict continued. The Taliban regrouped and began fighting back using insurgency tactics, such as ambushes and roadside bombs. U.S. and NATO forces built schools, roads, and hospitals to win support from locals, but civilian deaths and property destruction caused resentment. In a 2009 speech, President Barack Obama stated, “Our overarching goal remains the same: to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al-Qaeda in Afghanistan and Pakistan.” This quote shows the U.S. focus on counterterrorism, but also highlights how the mission changed over time to nation-building and stability efforts.

Perspectives on the war differed sharply. U.S. soldiers often believed they were helping Afghan people and fighting terrorism. Afghan government officials hoped for international aid and security. Some Afghan civilians, however, saw little change and faced ongoing danger. The Taliban claimed to defend Afghan culture and resist foreign control. These contradictory views made it difficult to find a resolution that satisfied all sides.

After two decades, the war ended in August 2021 when U.S. and NATO troops withdrew. The Taliban quickly regained control of Afghanistan. This outcome led many to question the war’s effectiveness and the cost in lives and resources. Over 2,400 U.S. service members and tens of thousands of Afghan civilians died. The war also displaced millions of Afghans, creating a humanitarian crisis. Yet, some argue that the war prevented further terrorist attacks and allowed some Afghan girls to attend school for the first time.

When analyzing the Afghanistan War, it is essential to weigh both the achievements and the failures. It shows how complex global conflicts can be and why understanding different perspectives matters. The war also raises important questions about intervention, national interests, and the long-term consequences of military action.

Interesting Fact: The Afghanistan War lasted nearly 20 years, making it longer than the U.S. involvement in Vietnam, World War I, and World War II combined.

When did the Afghanistan War begin?

Who was the U.S. president when the war started?

Which group regained control in 2021?

Why did the U.S. invade Afghanistan?

What did the U.S. build to win support?

What does 'contradictory' mean in the passage?

The Afghanistan War lasted nearly 20 years.

Which word means 'armed resistance'?