How did Canada become involved in Afghanistan?

Canada's involvement in Afghanistan began in 2001, shortly after the September 11 attacks on the United States. In response to the attacks, Canada joined a coalition of countries led by the United States in launching Operation Enduring Freedom, a military campaign aimed at dismantling the al-Qaeda terrorist organization and its Taliban allies in Afghanistan.

Canada's initial contribution to the campaign was limited to providing air support and special forces troops. However, in 2002, Canada assumed command of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), a NATO-led mission responsible for providing security and assistance to the Afghan government and people. Canada's commitment to ISAF grew over the years, and at the peak of its involvement, Canada had over 4,000 troops deployed to Afghanistan.

Canada's forces were involved in a variety of operations in Afghanistan, including combat operations against Taliban and al-Qaeda forces, as well as peacekeeping and reconstruction efforts. Canadian soldiers played a key role in the capture of Kandahar in 2006, a major victory for the coalition forces. However, Canada's involvement in Afghanistan also came at a high cost. Over the course of the mission, 158 Canadian soldiers were killed and over 2,500 were wounded.

In 2011, Canada began to reduce its troop levels in Afghanistan. The last Canadian combat troops were withdrawn in 2014, although Canada continued to provide training and support to the Afghan security forces until 2021.

Canada's involvement in Afghanistan was a complex and challenging mission. While Canada achieved some notable successes, such as the capture of Kandahar, the overall outcome of the mission remains uncertain. The Taliban quickly regained control of much of the country after the withdrawal of foreign troops in 2021, and the future of Afghanistan remains uncertain.