The aftermath of the U.S. troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 has thrust the nation into a complex and dire situation. With a humanitarian crisis looming, economic decline, and a faltering public health system, the country is grappling with unprecedented challenges. Reports indicate that 28.3 million people will require urgent humanitarian assistance in 2023, with 17 million facing acute hunger. The Taliban's decree has notably impacted women's access to work, compounding the crisis.

Canadian journalist Kathy Gannon, drawing on 34 years of expertise in Afghanistan and Pakistan, highlights the consistent pattern of conflict since 1979 and critiques foreign interventions. The U.S.'s strategy of isolating the Taliban for reform has, historically, backfired, leaving the Afghan people feeling abandoned. Gannon urges a shift in U.S. policy, advocating for re-engagement and the reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul as a demonstration of commitment.

While the U.S. provides humanitarian aid, Gannon argues that more is needed for Afghanistan's progress. She emphasizes missed opportunities for collaboration during the Taliban's previous rule and stresses the importance of engaging with factions open to international cooperation. The current anti-Taliban movement, marred by questionable figures, adds complexity to establishing a credible opposition.

Criticism mounts over the U.S.'s approach to international conflicts, particularly the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal. President Biden's 'hope for the best' strategy faces scrutiny. The Ghost Budget, a distinct funding method for post 9/11 wars without higher taxes or non-war budget cuts, raises concerns about limited oversight and transparency, deviating from historical funding norms. The ongoing crisis demands a reevaluation of U.S. policy and a concerted effort to address Afghanistan's multifaceted challenges.