Operation Enduring Freedom
$815B
Cost
100,000
Troops Deployed
2,372
US Casualties
71,000
Civilian Deaths
Overview
The US invasion of Afghanistan following 9/11, initially targeting al-Qaeda and the Taliban. What began as a targeted strike became America's longest war, spanning four presidencies and costing over $2 trillion when veteran care is included.
Outcome
Taliban removed from power in 2001 but returned to power in 2021 after US withdrawal. Al-Qaeda leadership decimated but ideology spread. Afghanistan Papers revealed senior officials knew the war was unwinnable for years.
Key Fact
The US spent $300 million per day in Afghanistan. The Taliban now controls more territory than at any point since 2001, armed with $7 billion in abandoned US equipment.