President Biden's determination to withdraw from Afghanistan was unwavering, disregarding advice from military experts, NATO allies, and Afghan officials. This conclusion is drawn from the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s two-year investigation into the chaotic and deadly Afghanistan withdrawal. The 350-page report criticizes Biden for ignoring expertise and prioritizing his political legacy over national security interests. The report also accuses the administration of misleading the public to gather support for the swift exit from the 20-year war.

Former President Trump's Doha Agreement, aimed at ending the US war in Afghanistan, was sidelined by Biden’s administration despite the obligations it contained for the Taliban. The agreement specified that the Taliban cut ties with terrorist organizations, cease attacks on US and coalition troops, reduce violence, and negotiate with the Afghan government. The Biden administration announced a review of the Taliban's adherence to this agreement but later claimed it was irrelevant to the withdrawal decision. The report highlights that missing information from public statements included the Taliban’s non-compliance and ongoing terrorism in Afghanistan.

Despite advice from various military and intelligence officials against a total withdrawal, Biden proceeded. NATO allies and Afghan officials also pleaded for more time, with General Haibatullah Alizai requesting two additional years to prepare. The lack of planning for a noncombatant evacuation operation was a significant oversight, affecting both Americans and allies on the ground. The Biden-Harris administration prioritized optics over addressing these concerns, leading to a hasty evacuation process amidst hostile conditions. The report also notes Vice President Kamala Harris’s involvement, as she was present during the final decision to withdraw all US forces.

The report's release, shortly before a televised debate between Harris and Trump, sparked accusations of political timing. Chairman Michael McCaul defended the timing, citing delays due to obstruction. The panel scrutinized both Biden and Trump, criticizing the exclusion of the Afghan government from the Doha Agreement negotiations under Trump. Despite releasing the extensive report, the committee’s investigation continues, aiming for reforms in the National Security Council and State Department. Sharon Yang, from the White House, criticized the report as biased and based on selective facts, reflecting ongoing criticisms of the investigation.