U.S. Goals in Afghanistan

Over two decades of involvement, U.S. objectives in Afghanistan included:

• Promoting stability and security to prevent terrorist safe havens.
• Supporting the Afghan government's capacity to govern and provide security.
• Fostering economic development and job creation for improved living standards.
• Improving human rights, especially for women and minorities.
• Enhancing regional security through counterterrorism and anti-narcotics efforts.

While progress was made in some areas, setbacks occurred. The U.S. remained committed to working with the Afghan government and allies until the 2021 withdrawal.