Battle of Kandahar (2021)

The Battle of Kandahar (2021) was a military conflict fought during the 2021 Taliban offensive in Afghanistan, as part of the larger war in Afghanistan. It primarily involved the Taliban insurgents attacking the city of Kandahar, which was defended by the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF), supported by airpower from the United States and Afghan Air Force.

The battle was part of a wider Taliban campaign to seize control of major urban centers following the withdrawal of most international troops. Kandahar, a strategically important city and the second-largest in Afghanistan, became a key target.

The Taliban launched a sustained offensive, employing tactics such as vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs), direct assaults, and encircling maneuvers. The ANSF, hampered by low morale, logistical challenges, and allegations of corruption, struggled to maintain control. Despite inflicting casualties on the Taliban, they faced immense pressure and gradually lost ground.

The fighting was intense and resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement. The battle disrupted essential services, including healthcare and access to food and water.

Ultimately, the ANSF were unable to repel the Taliban's advance. After weeks of fighting and facing dwindling resources, the city fell to the Taliban in mid-August 2021, shortly before the collapse of the Afghan government and the fall of Kabul. The fall of Kandahar significantly weakened the Afghan government's control over the country and paved the way for the Taliban's rapid takeover.