The Pentagon has known of fundamental flaws with U.S. military operations in the Horn of Africa for nearly 20 years but has nonetheless forged ahead, failing to address glaring problems, according to a 2007 study obtained exclusively by The Intercept.
Lack of Coherent Strategy:
The 50-page analysis conducted by the Institute for Defense Analyses highlighted the absence of a shared conception of the conflict in the Horn of Africa. The study revealed an overemphasis on military measures without a clear definition of optimal military strategy and barriers to coordination between the military and other government agencies like the State Department and local allies like the Somali government.
Historical Context:
From the Vietnam War to the ongoing U.S. war in Afghanistan, the Pentagon has a history of investigating its failures while publicly claiming progress. The IDA study demonstrates that U.S. officials were aware of structural defects in American efforts in Africa from the earliest days of the conflict.
Military Operations:
The U.S. military established the Combined Joint Task Force–Horn of Africa in 2002 to conduct operations in support of the global war on terror in the region. Despite deep-seated problems identified by IDA researchers at the beginning of the conflict, the U.S. continued its military operations in the region.
Ongoing Challenges:
The IDA study lamented the presence of al-Qaeda in the Horn of Africa and the failed state of Somalia. Despite two decades of U.S. involvement, security and stability have been lacking for Somalis, with death and destruction on the rise.
Bipartisan Consensus Needed:
Experts suggest that lawmakers from both parties need to come together to end America’s failed campaign in the Horn of Africa. With so many pressing crises globally, it is crucial to address the failed and counterproductive approach in the region.
Future Prospects:
The Biden administration’s special envoy for the Horn of Africa emphasized the need to alleviate suffering and end conflicts in the region. However, after 20 years of effort and billions of U.S. tax dollars spent, there is a call for bipartisan consensus to rein in this war and bring it to a close.
In conclusion, the Pentagon’s long-standing awareness of fundamental flaws in U.S. military operations in the Horn of Africa highlights the need for a reevaluation of strategies and a concerted effort to address ongoing challenges. With bipartisan support and a redefined approach, there is hope for a more effective and sustainable resolution to the conflict in the region.