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Basir A. Comparison of U.S. Security Strategies in Iraq and Afghanistan (1991–2021): Objectives, Methods, and Outcomes. SRQPIS 2025; 1 (4) :101-123
URL: http://srqpis.knu.edu.af/article-1-48-en.html

This study provides a comparative analysis of the United States’ security strategies in Iraq and Afghanistan from 1991 to 2021. It focuses on examining the objectives, methods, and outcomes of U.S. interventions in these two countries. The U.S. intervention in Iraq was primarily aimed at regime change, establishing democracy, and countering Iranian influence. In contrast, the main focus in Afghanistan was on combating terrorism and preventing the country from becoming a safe haven for terrorist groups.
The U.S. security strategies in Iraq and Afghanistan differ significantly. In Iraq, a combination of hard and soft power was employed, whereas in Afghanistan, hard power played a more dominant role. The findings of this research indicate that despite initial military successes, the U.S. failed to achieve its long-term strategic goals in either country. Political and security instability, the emergence of extremist groups such as ISIS, and the increased influence of regional players like Iran and Russia were among the consequences of these strategies.
This study highlights that the U.S. security approaches largely failed due to their neglect of social, cultural, and political factors. Ultimately, the research suggests that future policymakers should adopt a balanced mix of hard and soft power in security interventions and place greater emphasis on the local conditions of the target country.