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Unveiling the CIA's Covert Campaign: "How Seven CIA Officers Opened the War on Terror in Afghanistan"

Duane Kelly

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Seven CIA Officers Who Played A Pivotal Role In The Early Stages Of The War On Terror In Afghanistan First In: How Seven CIA Officers Opened The War On Terror In Afghanistan

In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the United States embarked on a global war against terrorism that would profoundly reshape the geopolitical landscape. At the forefront of this effort was the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA),which played a critical role in opening the war on terror in Afghanistan.

First In: How Seven CIA Officers Opened the War on Terror in Afghanistan

by Gary C. Schroen

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	416 pages

In his captivating book, "How Seven CIA Officers Opened the War on Terror in Afghanistan," author Douglas Stanton recounts the extraordinary exploits of a small team of CIA officers who risked their lives to establish a foothold in Afghanistan and lay the groundwork for the overthrow of the Taliban regime. Drawing on extensive interviews with the officers themselves, Stanton offers a gripping firsthand account of their daring missions, close calls, and the profound impact their actions had on the course of history.

Establishing a Presence in a Hostile Environment

In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, the CIA was faced with the daunting task of establishing a presence in Afghanistan, a country that had been under Taliban rule for years. The Taliban, a radical Islamist group, had imposed a strict interpretation of Islamic law, oppressing women, minorities, and anyone who dared to challenge their authority.

Undeterred, a small team of CIA officers was dispatched to Afghanistan with the mission of gathering intelligence and preparing the ground for military action. These officers faced immense challenges from the outset. They had to operate in a country where they were unwelcome, with little support or infrastructure. They were hunted by the Taliban, who were determined to capture or kill them.

Despite these risks, the CIA officers pressed on, using their ingenuity and determination to establish a foothold in Afghanistan. They forged relationships with local leaders, recruited informants, and set up a network of safe houses where they could meet and exchange information.

Building Alliances and Preparing for War

As the CIA officers established their presence in Afghanistan, they began to build alliances with local warlords and opposition groups who were opposed to the Taliban. These alliances were essential to the CIA's efforts to gather intelligence and prepare for military action.

One of the most important alliances was with the Northern Alliance, a coalition of anti-Taliban forces led by the legendary Afghan commander, Ahmad Shah Massoud. The CIA provided the Northern Alliance with weapons, training, and logistical support, helping them to resist the Taliban's advances.

In addition to building alliances, the CIA officers also played a critical role in preparing for military action. They conducted reconnaissance missions, gathered intelligence on Taliban targets, and provided targeting data to the US military.

Operation Enduring Freedom: The Overthrow of the Taliban

In October 2001, the United States launched Operation Enduring Freedom, a military campaign to overthrow the Taliban regime and dismantle al-Qaeda, the terrorist group responsible for the 9/11 attacks. The CIA played a key role in the planning and execution of this operation.

The CIA officers who had been operating in Afghanistan for months provided invaluable intelligence that helped the US military to target Taliban and al-Qaeda forces. They also worked closely with Afghan forces on the ground, providing them with guidance and support.

Operation Enduring Freedom was a success. The Taliban regime was overthrown, and al-Qaeda's training camps were destroyed. However, the war in Afghanistan was far from over. The Taliban and other insurgent groups continued to fight against the US-led coalition for years to come.

The Legacy of the Seven CIA Officers

The seven CIA officers who opened the war on terror in Afghanistan played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history. Their daring missions and unwavering determination helped to overthrow the Taliban regime and dismantle al-Qaeda's network. Their actions also laid the groundwork for the long and complex war that followed.

The legacy of these seven officers is a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices that those in the intelligence community make to keep our nation safe. Their story is a testament to the courage, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment of those who serve in the shadows.

In "How Seven CIA Officers Opened the War on Terror in Afghanistan," Douglas Stanton provides a gripping firsthand account of the extraordinary exploits of a small team of CIA officers who played a pivotal role in the opening stages of the War on Terror. Drawing on extensive interviews with the officers themselves, Stanton offers a rare glimpse into the covert world of intelligence operations and the profound impact they have on the course of history.

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the War on Terror, the role of the CIA in Afghanistan, and the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of those who serve in the intelligence community.

First In: How Seven CIA Officers Opened the War on Terror in Afghanistan

by Gary C. Schroen

4.6 out of 5