Afghanistan

On January 1, 2015, Afghan forces assumed full responsibility for security as United States and other coalition forces were withdrawn from Afghanistan.  This date marked the end of NATO Operation Enduring Freedom and a shift to a new, smaller NATO mission with a focus on assistance and training known as Operation Resolute Support.  Congressman Lynch strongly supported the removal of the U.S. military personnel and the stepping up of the Afghan authorities to take the lead in ensuring their own security.

Having traveled nine times to Afghanistan as a Member of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, the Congressman has gained a keen awareness of the significant challenges the country continues to face.  The Afghan government is still nascent, and the economic and developmental progress that has been made thus far is still highly tenuous.  In addition, there are continued security challenges due to ongoing attacks by Taliban insurgents and the recent hostilities initiated by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).  Congressman Lynch believes that there is a role for the U.S. to play in supporting the Afghans, through training and logistical assistance, as the Afghans work to rebuild and secure their nation.