Description

The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan was a presidential republic that governed Afghanistan from 2004 until 2021. Established to replace the interim (2001–2002) and transitional (2002–2004) administrations formed after the 2001 US invasion, it succeeded the partially recognized Taliban-led Islamic Emirate. On August 15, 2021, the Taliban recaptured the country, ending the 20-year conflict, the longest war in US history, and overthrowing President Ashraf Ghani's government. The United Nations still recognizes the Islamic Republic as Afghanistan's legitimate government, but it controls no territory and does not operate in exile. The Taliban's Islamic Emirate is the de facto ruling government. The collapse of the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) was significantly influenced by the US–Taliban deal signed on February 29, 2020, which reduced US air support and deprived the ANSF of critical capabilities, leading to the fall of Kabul.