Its longtime enemy now a fact of life, Washington must choose when to shun or tolerate the group, with all the wrenching trade-offs each policy choice brings.
Tag: Al Qaeda
In Afghanistan, an Unceremonious End, and a Shrouded Beginning
The last American flight from Afghanistan left behind a host of unfulfilled promises and anxious questions about the country’s fate.
Afghanistan Collapse and Strikes in Somalia Raise Snags for Drone Warfare Rules
But the Biden administration is close to finishing a new playbook for counterterrorism strikes outside conventional war zones.
Kabul Airport Attack Highlights Enduring Threat of ISIS and Al Qaeda
The U.S. and its allies waged war for 20 years to try to defeat terrorists in Afghanistan. A double-suicide bombing demonstrated that they remain a threat.
Amid Afghan Chaos, a C.I.A. Mission That Will Persist for Years
The spy agency had plans to de-emphasize counterterrorism operations to focus on rising global powers. History got in the way.
What Is ISIS-K?
Founded in 2015, the Afghan branch of the Islamic State counts both U.S. forces and the Taliban as its foes.
Is Pakistan the Real Winner of the Afghan War?
Pakistan, nominally a U.S. partner in the war, was the Afghan Taliban’s main patron, and sees the Taliban’s victory as its own. But now what does it do with its prize?
Israel’s Spy Agency Snubbed the U.S. Can Trust Be Restored?
Israel’s new prime minister, Naftali Bennett, heads to Washington promising better relations and seeking support for covert attacks on Iran’s nuclear program.
ISIS Branch in Afghanistan Poses Terror Threat to Evacuation in Kabul
An Islamic State affiliate that is a sworn enemy of both the Taliban and the United States threatens a large-scale attack against the mission at the airport.
Did the War in Afghanistan Have to Happen?
In 2001, when the Taliban were weak and ready to surrender, the U.S. passed on a deal. Nearly 20 years later, the Taliban hold all the cards.