The chairman of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, Rep. Michael McCaul, has issued a formal request for National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan to provide public testimony regarding the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan. This demand marks a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation into the end of America's longest war, which concluded three years ago.
In a letter addressed to the White House, McCaul stated his readiness to "compel" Sullivan's testimony if cooperation is not forthcoming. The committee has set August 31, 2024, as the deadline for arranging Sullivan's appearance.
The investigation, led by Republican McCaul, focuses on the events surrounding the U.S. departure from Afghanistan, which resulted in the rapid collapse of the Afghan government and the Taliban's swift return to power. This outcome occurred after nearly two decades of American military presence and an investment exceeding $2 trillion.
McCaul's letter emphasizes the National Security Council's substantial role in executing the withdrawal decision. He raises concerns about the NSC potentially overstepping its authority in areas typically managed by the State and Defense Departments.
"Crucial questions remain, including the role of the NSC in usurping congressionally designated responsibilities of the State Department and Defense Department."
The committee's inquiry has revealed that thousands of Afghan allies, promised sanctuary by the United States, were left behind during the chaotic evacuation. Some continue to seek escape routes three years later.
While the White House has not confirmed whether Sullivan will testify, spokesperson Sharon Yang defended the administration's decision to end the war. She stated that the U.S. is now better positioned to address future challenges and current threats.
Democrats, including Rep. Gregory Meeks, the committee's ranking member, have criticized the investigation as partisan. They argue that the groundwork for the withdrawal was laid during the Trump administration, which initiated negotiations with the Taliban without involving the Afghan government.
The investigation has also faced internal challenges. Jerry Dunleavy, a former top investigator for McCaul, recently resigned, citing concerns about the inquiry's direction and alleged insufficient scrutiny of military leaders.
As the third anniversary of the Abbey Gate bombing passed on August 26, 2024, the tragic event that claimed 13 U.S. service members and approximately 170 Afghan civilians remains a somber reminder of the withdrawal's human cost.
The committee's final report, when released, is expected to provide a comprehensive analysis of the withdrawal process and potentially assign responsibility for perceived failures in planning and execution.