Afghanistan War offers a comprehensive exploration of the conflict from the 1979 Soviet invasion to the 2021 U.S. withdrawal, emphasizing the complexities of foreign intervention, insurgency, and the war's profound socio-political consequences. The book examines how a Cold War proxy battle transformed into the longest war in modern American history, leaving an enduring impact on Afghanistan and the world. It highlights the limitations of military power in achieving political objectives amidst social divisions and external meddling, despite significant investment.
The book traces the history of Afghanistan, examining foreign interference and internal conflicts setting the stage for the Soviet invasion. It analyzes the Soviet-Afghan War, the rise of the Mujahideen, and external support. Progressing into the post-Soviet era, it details the Taliban's rise and the subsequent U.S.-led invasion, focusing on military strategies, political objectives, and the challenges of nation-building.
The study concludes by evaluating the war's lasting impact on Afghanistan, the region, and the United States, providing lessons for future foreign policy interventions.