A Statement From The Co-Chairs Of The Afghanistan War Commission Shamila N. Chaudhary And Dr. Colin F. Jackson On The Extension Of Its Mandate

We welcome extension of the Afghanistan War Commission’s mandate for one year, providing the additional time necessary to complete a comprehensive, independent, and rigorous assessment of America’s 20-year war in Afghanistan.  Our final report is now due in August of 2027.

Congressional leaders from relevant committees in both chambers and in both parties approved the extension through a process outlined in our authorizing legislation.  Such broad, bipartisan support has been critical to ensuring the Commission can fulfill our Congressional mandate.   We thank the Chairs and Ranking Members of our appointing and appropriate committees for approving this extension.

As our third Interim Report issued last week describes, the extension will allow the Commission to deepen this work, complete critical research, and ensure that our final report offers thoughtful, evidence-based findings and recommendations worthy of the sacrifices made during the war.

We look forward to working with Congress and the Executive Branch in the months ahead to complete our assessment and to ensure that the lessons from the war inform future generations of American leaders.