A recent national poll indicates that two-thirds of Americans believe the two-decade-long Afghanistan war was not worth the resources, time, and lives lost. This sentiment was largely consistent across political party lines, with both Democrats and Republicans expressing regret about the war. The poll, conducted by The Pearson Institute, the Associated Press, and the University of Chicago, aligns with the findings of a similar study in 2021. The war, which lasted nearly 20 years, resulted in the deaths of 2,219 Americans, and an estimated 170,000 people in total.
Key Points:
- A majority of Americans, irrespective of political affiliations, consider the war in Afghanistan a mistake. Specifically, 65% of Democrats and 63% of Republicans stated the war was “not worth fighting.”
- The primary objectives of the war, as perceived by the polled Americans, were largely unmet. The only goal they believed was achieved was the capturing or killing of those responsible for the 9/11 attacks.
- In reflecting on international affairs, 24% of those polled said the U.S. should be more active, 42% believed the current role is appropriate, and 33% thought the U.S. should be less involved.
- The Afghanistan war concluded with a turbulent withdrawal in August 2021. Over its duration, 2,219 American military personnel lost their lives.
- Public opinion remains divided on the U.S.’s role in global affairs, indicating no clear consensus among Americans on how proactive the country should be internationally.
Source: https://taskandpurpose.com/news/poll-afghanistan-war-not-worth-fighting/
