Over the last year, the government Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (GIRoA) experienced multiple transitions within itself, the Ccoalition, enemy forces, and the region. The National Unity Government (NUG) formed after a prolonged election, allowing for a peaceful transfer of power from President Karzai to President Ghani. The NUG also proved to be a truly unique political arrangement in Afghanistan’s history, establishing both a president and chief executive. Resolute Support (RS) supplanted the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) mission, focusing on training, advising, and assisting the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF). The influx of militants pushed into Afghanistan by successful Pakistani operations exacerbated an already volatile insurgent environment. New alliances and fissures within the Taliban following the July announcement of the death of Mullah Omar, a persistent al-Qaeida, and the continued emergence of the Islamic State-Khorosan Province (IS-KP), or Daesh, also changed the landscape.
In the wake of the Ccoalition’s drawdown, the ANDSF and insurgents both accepted that this year could be decisive. The fighting has been near continuous, casualties on both sides have risen, and violence has moved beyond traditional Taliban strongholds. Although the ANDSF experienced setbacks, such as in Kunduz in early October, they quickly regrouped and retook ground in a matter of days or weeks. No insurgent group is gaining or holding ground in Afghanistan, and the Taliban have once again failed to achieve their strategic objectives. The ANDSF have improved in many respects, but still require assistance in close air support capabilities, logistics and force generation. They have initiated reforms to address corruption, promote human rights and gender equality, and for the first time are developing a comprehensive Wwinter Ccampaign. In a greatly contested environment, they have held firm, are motivated, and demonstrate significant professionalism.
President Obama’s decision to extend current force structure and basing through January 2017 has been well-received here. Operationally, the decision gave NATO the opportunity to display similar flexibility and resolve in maintaining our persistent regional presence. It is through this presence that we will maintain our influence and continue building the ANDSF. Strategically, this decision provided the Afghans with a psychological boost and undermined the insurgencies’ narrative that they can, and are, driving us out. Our commitment shows that insurgents cannot win militarily, and that the only end to this conflict will come from peace talks and reconciliation.
The RS Coalition has demonstrated more cohesion, resilience, and effectiveness than any other of its size in recent history. The ANDSF fully understand the importance of 2016 and are dedicated to improving. We stand firm in support of the ANDSF and GIRoA the Afghan government, while seeking out those who wish harm on our homelands. I am confident we will prevail and remain optimistic about the future of Afghanistan. To see this mission through is the greatest legacy we can create in honor of our fallen and their families.
Campbell is commander of the Resolute Support Mission and US Forces–Afghanistan (COMRS).
Commentary: Commitment to Afghan National Defense and Security Forces Is Working
