Uncommon Knowledge

Paul Wolfowitz on the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars and a Life in Foreign Policy | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution

May 1, 2024
Former policymaker Paul Wolfowitz discusses the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, detailing the decision-making processes and reasons behind US involvement. Topics include the rapid defeat of Taliban forces, Iraq's pursuit of nuclear weapons, challenges in managing long-term wars, and reflections on the post-9/11 era. Wolfowitz also emphasizes the importance of public wisdom and historical lessons in shaping US foreign policy.
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ANECDOTE

9/11 at the Pentagon

  • Paul Wolfowitz was in the Pentagon when it was struck on 9/11.
  • He initially thought it was an aeronautical mistake, but Rumsfeld immediately recognized it as terrorism.
ANECDOTE

Rapid Success in Afghanistan

  • The US quickly ousted the Taliban in Afghanistan using special forces and B-52 strikes.
  • Special forces members, some with no prior horse-riding experience, called in airstrikes from horseback.
INSIGHT

Military Innovation

  • The rapid learning and adaptation in Afghanistan contrasted with the Vietnam War's rigidities.
  • Combining special forces with B-52s demonstrated innovative military thinking.
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