Operation Enduring Freedom

U.S. Soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division during Operation Enduring Freedom

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) was the official name used by the U.S. government for the Global War on Terrorism's military response initially aimed at dismantling the Al-Qaeda terrorist organization and removing the Taliban from power in Afghanistan. The operation began on October 7, 2001, in response to the September 11 attacks on the United States. It marked the beginning of the War on Terror, a campaign that sought to eliminate international terrorism, specifically targeting Al-Qaeda and its affiliates.

Background

The roots of Operation Enduring Freedom can be traced back to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, when 19 militants associated with Al-Qaeda hijacked four airplanes, carrying out suicide attacks against targets in the United States. The most devastating of these were the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. In response, the United States, under President George W. Bush, launched Operation Enduring Freedom to combat terrorism on a global scale, with the initial phase focusing on Afghanistan, where Al-Qaeda's leader, Osama bin Laden, was believed to be hiding under the protection of the Taliban regime.

Objectives

The primary objectives of Operation Enduring Freedom were to dismantle Al-Qaeda, to remove the Taliban from power in Afghanistan, and to support the establishment of a democratic government in its place. The operation aimed to deny terrorists a safe haven from which they could operate, train, and plan future attacks.

Military Campaign

The military campaign of Operation Enduring Freedom began with air strikes against Taliban and Al-Qaeda targets in Afghanistan. The United States, along with its allies from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and other coalition partners, deployed ground troops to engage enemy forces, gather intelligence, and support anti-Taliban Afghan forces. The operation saw the use of a wide range of military tactics, including special operations forces, air power, and conventional ground forces.

Outcomes

Operation Enduring Freedom resulted in the initial defeat of the Taliban government and significantly disrupted Al-Qaeda's operations in Afghanistan. However, the Taliban and Al-Qaeda proved resilient, leading to a prolonged conflict that extended beyond the original scope of the operation. The establishment of a new Afghan government and the rebuilding of the country's infrastructure presented significant challenges, compounded by ongoing insurgency and political instability.

Legacy

Operation Enduring Freedom has had a profound impact on international relations, global security, and the geopolitics of the Middle East and Central Asia. It has raised questions about the effectiveness of military intervention in combating terrorism and the costs associated with long-term military engagements. The operation also highlighted the complexities of nation-building and the importance of international cooperation in addressing global security threats.

See Also

• War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)
• Taliban insurgency
• NATO involvement in Afghanistan
• Counter-terrorism