Plot summary, “Ghost Wars” by Steve Coll in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"Ghost Wars: The Secret History of the CIA, Afghanistan, and Bin Laden, from the Soviet Invasion to September 10, 2001" is a non-fiction book written by Steve Coll. Published in 2004, the book provides an in-depth and comprehensive examination of the complex and often hidden history of U.S. involvement in Afghanistan leading up to the events of September 11, 2001.
The book focuses on the period from the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 to the lead-up to the 9/11 attacks. It traces the intricate web of political, military, and intelligence activities that shaped the region's history and set the stage for the rise of Osama bin Laden and al-Qaeda. Steve Coll, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, draws upon extensive research, interviews, and a variety of sources to piece together the various elements of this history.
"Ghost Wars" sheds light on the covert operations conducted by various parties, including the CIA, the Pakistani intelligence agency ISI, and Afghan factions, during the Cold War and its aftermath. The book delves into the relationships between these groups, the unintended consequences of their actions, and the failure of intelligence agencies to accurately assess the threat posed by al-Qaeda prior to the 9/11 attacks.
The title "Ghost Wars" alludes to the often shadowy and covert nature of the conflicts and activities detailed in the book. Steve Coll meticulously traces the evolution of these "ghost wars" and how they contributed to shaping the geopolitical landscape of the region.
The book has received widespread acclaim for its thorough research, insightful analysis, and clear narrative style. It provides readers with a deeper understanding of the historical context that led to the events of September 11, 2001, and the subsequent U.S. response. "Ghost Wars" is often recommended as essential reading for those interested in understanding the complexities of the U.S. involvement in Afghanistan and the origins of the post-9/11 world.