Blowback S4 Episode 7 - "Guns of the Patriots"
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Dec 20, 2023 The controversial evacuation of Taliban members raises questions about U.S.-Pakistan relations. The fall of the Taliban government leads to corruption in Afghanistan, and Osama bin Laden's notorious escape complicates matters. Chaos ensues among U.S. military leaders in a fast-evolving geopolitical landscape. Post-9/11 power moves reshape national security strategies and alliances. Insights into Operation Enduring Freedom reveal emotional impacts on troops and civilians alike. The hunt for bin Laden at Tora Bora highlights critical leadership failures that reverberate globally.
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Kunduz Airlift
- In 2001, Pakistani aircraft were seen flying into Kunduz, Afghanistan, evacuating Taliban, al-Qaeda, and ISI personnel.
- The Bush administration reportedly approved these evacuations, a fact hidden from officials like Colin Powell.
Taliban's Military Quandary
- The Taliban presented a unique military challenge due to their lack of traditional targets like air force or naval bases.
- This led to unconventional strategies, including suggestions to poison food supplies and target civilian infrastructure.
CIA's "War" Mentality
- The CIA adopted an aggressive, anything-goes approach post-9/11, epitomized by a sign in their counterterrorism center: "Today is September 12, 2001."
- This mindset led to proposals like poisoning food supplies and a focus on covert actions with the Northern Alliance.