On Tuesday, May 13, at 10:00 a.m. (ET), the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative in collaboration with Andiana Foundation will host a discussion taking stock of US policy options in Afghanistan. 

Nearly four years after the Taliban’s return to power, US policy on Afghanistan remains unclear. The Taliban’s close ties to al-Qaeda and the growing trend of radicalization in the country poses a direct threat to US interests in the region. Along with the Taliban’s pattern of suppression, instability, and its lack of inclusive governance, US policymakers have already raised serious concerns over the political trajectory of the country.

Still, engagements between US officials and the Taliban on issues like counterterrorism, humanitarian aid, and the release of detainees have progressed, despite the lack of a coherent long-term strategy. Our discussion will assess the country’s evolving political and security landscape, its implications for US strategic interests, and the way forward for US policy on Afghanistan.

This event will be streamed live on Atlantic Council TV, YouTube, Facebook, and X. To register for this event, please complete the form on this page.