The stream of bad news from America’s longest war in Afghanistan is relentless. But even more worrying is the lack of debate within Washington on how to salvage the situation.

The emboldened Taliban now controls more territory in Afghanistan than at any time since 2001. Pakistan continues to provide the group with sanctuaries and a support network on its territory. At the same time, Islamic State has made significant inroads and has carved out a footprint in the eastern parts of the country.

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