Almost two years ago, the Afghan government and security forces collapsed even before the final U.S. soldier left Afghanistan. The decision to withdraw was part of an agreement between the Trump administration and the Taliban, following years of diplomatic efforts and months of intense negotiations. President Biden, upon taking office, upheld this commitment instead of choosing renewed conflict with the Taliban. Diplomatic efforts continue under U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Thomas West and U.S. Special Envoy for Afghan Women, Girls, and Human Rights Rina Amiri, but there have been no significant breakthroughs for either side. The Taliban’s main demands include international recognition, lifting of sanctions, and access to frozen foreign exchange reserves. The U.S. and its partners insist on counterterrorism commitments, an inclusive government, and restoring rights for women and girls.
What are the U.S.’s interests in Afghanistan two years after withdrawal? How should the U.S. interact with the Taliban? How can the U.S. engage with Afghans? How can U.S. policymakers balance the desires of the Afghan diaspora with those of Afghans within the country? Does engagement give the Taliban credibility without yielding any benefits, or is it a necessary step?
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