What were the goals and challenges of U.S. involvement in Afghanistan after 2001, and how did policy evolve by 2014–2015?

• A. Goals: dismantle safe havens of al-Qaeda, prevent Afghanistan as terrorist base, support governance; challenges: insurgency, governance, reconciliation; by 2014–2015: transition to Afghan security forces, reform, negotiations with insurgents, drawdown timelines.
• B. Goals: expand territorial control; challenges: none; by 2014–2015: permanent occupation.
• C. Goals: install a monarchy; challenges: water rights; by 2014–2015: withdrawal.
• D. Goals: isolate Afghanistan; challenges: universal peace; by 2014–2015: increase foreign troops.

Answer: (A)