Pentagon: ‘Robust’ counter-terrorism efforts in Afghanistan must continue — even if peace deal is reached
By: Diana Stancy Correll  
The Pentagon is warning that a “robust†counter-terrorism capability must remain in Afghanistan against groups including al-Qaida, even if a peace deal with the Taliban is secured.
According to a Pentagon report released Friday, the Afghan government, the U.S. and coalition partners will continue to face risks from al-Qaida, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria-Khorasan Province, as well as from some in the Taliban.
“Even if a successful political settlement with the Taliban emerges from ongoing talks, AQ, ISIS-K, and some unknown number of Taliban hardliners will constitute a substantial threat to the Afghan government and its citizens, as well as to the United States and its coalition partners,†the report says.
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2019/07/16/pentagon-robust-counter-terrorism-efforts-in-afghanistan-must-continue-even-if-peace-deal-is-reached/
