Congressman Anthony Brown: It's Time To End The Two-Decades Long War In Afghanistan

Statement

Congressman Anthony G. Brown (MD-04), the senior Black member on the House Armed Services Committee and a 30-year Army veteran, released the following statement on President Biden's announcement that U.S. troops will withdraw from Afghanistan before the 20th anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks:

"I commend President Biden for his plan to withdraw troops from Afghanistan through a responsible and deliberate process that will continue to protect our security, and maintain the diplomatic and political channels needed to foster agreement and peace. As we seek to end active hostilities in this nearly two-decades long war, we must acknowledge the brave men and women in uniform, veterans and their families who have served in this conflict and their commitment to defending our nation.

"The reality on the ground and the threats facing our country have fundamentally changed since we first introduced forces in Afghanistan following 9/11. As we begin withdrawal of military personnel, we must continue to work alongside our partners in the region to ensure extremists cannot export violence to the United States or our allies.

"Threats to national and global security will no doubt require President Biden and future administrations to act. Congress must exercise our Constitutional duty, replace outdated authorities and ensure that any updated authorities are narrowly tailored to our security needs. After decades of war, we must fulfill our obligation to our servicemen and women to only use military force as a last resort."

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