Afghan Situation Remains Complex 25 Years After 9/11 Attacks

As the United States marks a quarter-century since the terrorism of September 11, 2001, CBS News revisits Afghanistan. The nation, once central to a prolonged conflict, witnessed the Taliban’s surprising return to power five years ago, coinciding with the withdrawal of U.S. and ally troops. This retreat concluded a two-decade military engagement that began as a result of the 9/11 attacks.

Following the departure of the U.S. and coalition forces, the Taliban captured extensive American-purchased military equipment. President Trump, whose tenure involved negotiating the troop withdrawal agreement with the Taliban, criticized the subsequent Biden administration. He pointed to a failed withdrawal plan after assuming the presidency.

Today, the streets of Kabul openly display remnants of America’s long involvement. Taliban members frequently utilize armored vehicles once given to the Afghan army, along with American tactical gear. Images of the Taliban convoy participating in a parade to celebrate their fifth anniversary in power reflect the group’s confidence. An illustration of this transition includes a Humvee, still bearing traces of a Green Bay Packers decal, symbolizing its American-military origins.

President Trump has vocally criticized the situation, accusing the Biden administration of leaving valuable military assets behind. However, the Taliban insist these assets are now part of Afghanistan’s state resources and refuse to return them. In discussions with CBS News, Taliban spokesperson Abdul Qahar Balkhi affirmed that the equipment now belongs to the Afghan state, rejecting any notion of returning these assets.

Pentagon data indicates approximately $7 billion in weaponry was acquired by the Taliban following the Afghan National Army’s collapse. CBS News documented instances where ‘Badri 313’, an elite Taliban unit, patrolled using American vehicles and weapons. The Taliban’s newfound military strength allows them to enforce an interpretation of Islamic law, restricting liberties, especially for women and girls.

The Taliban’s imposition of its rule invites criticism of the Biden administration’s withdrawal strategy. This transition has emboldened the Taliban to transform politically and militarily while integrating vast American-supplied resources.

In September 2021, President Biden emphasized that prolonging U.S. military engagement in Afghanistan was futile, propagating the idea that the war was unwinnable due to Afghan forces’ unwillingness to fight. He articulated this position when the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan, two decades after their removal by U.S.-led forces.

A 2023 release by the Biden administration shared a summary of their Afghanistan exit review, attributing challenges to decisions by the Trump administration. This document, alongside additional State Department reports, suggested planning shortcomings in both the Trump and Biden administrations, leading to a contentious exit process.