Long War: The Inside Story of America and Afghanistan Since 9/11

The Long War chronicles the experiences of eight generals who commanded the war against the Taliban in Afghanistan, including David Petraeus, Stanley McChrystal, Joe Dunford, and John Allen. With military experience from Vietnam, they faced a unique leadership challenge in holding together a complex coalition of countries and navigating the politics of Washington, Brussels, and Kabul. The book details the daily crises they faced, such as assassinations, coup attempts, prison breaks, and civilian casualties, while responsible for thousands of young American and European lives. The decisions made in the early months of the conflict set the course for this becoming America's longest war.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 29 November 2021
Publisher: St Martin's Press

The Long War is a captivating account that delves into the remarkable story of eight influential Generals (seven American and one British) who played pivotal roles in the war against the Taliban in Afghanistan. These Generals, who hailed from diverse military backgrounds, including experiences in Vietnam, were now tasked with leading a high-profile, complex operation. Their command of the war was a testament to their exceptional leadership skills and unwavering determination.

Among these Generals, David Petraeus, Stanley McChrystal, Joe Dunford, and John Allen emerged as prominent figures. Petraeus, known for his strategic brilliance and ability to navigate complex situations, served as the Commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan. McChrystal, renowned for his charismatic leadership and strategic insights, held the position of Joint Chiefs of Staff. Dunford, a seasoned military officer, assumed command of U.S. forces in Afghanistan. Allen, a seasoned diplomat, served as the Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan.

These Generals had a wealth of military experience, but their roles in Afghanistan presented them with unprecedented challenges. They had to navigate a complex coalition of countries that joined the fight against the Taliban, ensuring that their efforts were synchronized and effective. Moreover, they had to confront the Taliban's formidable military might and absorb the intricate politics of Washington, Brussels, and Kabul.

In the field, the Generals led their troops with courage and determination, facing numerous daily crises. Assassinations, coup attempts, prison breaks, political betrayals, and civilian casualties were just a few of the challenges they encountered. These challenges tested their leadership skills and forced them to make difficult decisions that had far-reaching consequences.

The decisions made in the early months of the conflict set the course for this war to become America's longest war. The Generals had to balance the need for swift military action with the importance of building a sustainable and inclusive government in Afghanistan. They had to navigate the complex dynamics of the Afghan political landscape, engaging with various stakeholders and factions to foster stability and promote peace.

The Long War provides a detailed account of the daily struggles and challenges faced by these Generals. It sheds light on their leadership styles, decision-making processes, and the sacrifices they made to ensure the success of the war. The book also explores the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict, examining the role of the United States and its allies in shaping the future of Afghanistan and the region.

Through its compelling narrative and insightful analysis, The Long War offers valuable insights into the complexities of modern warfare and the critical role of leadership in achieving success. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military and the importance of supporting and honoring their contributions to our nation's security.

In conclusion, The Long War is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the war in Afghanistan and the remarkable contributions of the Generals who led it. The book provides a deep understanding of the challenges faced by these leaders, the decisions they made, and the lasting impact of their actions on the region and the world.

Weight: 592g
Dimension: 153 x 235 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781250284013