Bleeding Ulcer: The MAGTF, ISAF, and GIRoA during Operation Moshtarak
Abstract
Operation Moshtarak was the largest military operation in Afghanistan since the start of the America's war in Afghanistan. This thesis argues the complex clearing of Marjah, Afghanistan, displayed the unique abilities of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) construct, demonstrated by the leadership of the Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan (MEB-A). The tactical and operational successes did not satisfy the International Security Assistance Force's (ISAF) need for a quick, decisive victory in Marjah. Due to external political pressure, ISAF required a set-piece battle to justify its shift to a counterinsurgency strategy and the surge force allocated to implement the strategy. Finally, once the Marines cleared Marjah, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (GIRoA) failed to provide basic services to Marjah residents, slowing MEB-A's operational momentum.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 10, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1212011
Entities
People
- Benjamin M. Van Horrick
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College