Discover books similar to "Ghost Wars: The Secret History of the CIA, Afghanistan, and Bin Laden, from the Soviet Invasion to September 10, 2001"

Steve Coll

Ghost Wars: The Secret History of the CIA, Afghanistan, and Bin Laden, from the Soviet Invasion to September 10, 2001

"Ghost Wars: The Secret History of the CIA, Afghanistan, and Bin Laden, from the Soviet Invasion to September 10, 2001" by Steve Coll is a comprehensive and riveting account of the covert operations and political maneuverings that led to the rise of Al-Qaeda and the events of 9/11. Coll, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, draws on extensive research and interviews with key players to provide an unprecedented look at the complex and often shadowy world of international espionage and terrorism. The book begins with the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 and traces the rise of Islamic resistance movements, fueled by billions of dollars in covert aid from the United States and Saudi Arabia. Coll examines the role of the CIA, Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), and other intelligence agencies in arming and training the mujahedeen, and the unintended consequences of this support, including the rise of radical Islamist groups and the eventual emergence of Osama bin Laden and Al-Qaeda. Coll also delves into the inner workings of the Clinton and Bush administrations, revealing the debates and disagreements over how to respond to the growing threat of terrorism. He provides a detailed and nuanced portrait of bin Laden, showing how he evolved from a charismatic and wealthy Saudi businessman into a ruthless terrorist leader. One of the strengths of "Ghost Wars" is its even-handed and non-partisan approach. Coll does not shy away from criticizing the actions of the CIA, the ISI, and other agencies, but he also acknowledges the difficult choices and trade-offs that policymakers faced in a complex and rapidly changing world. "Ghost Wars" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the roots of contemporary terrorism and the challenges facing the intelligence community in the 21st century. It is a gripping and masterfully told story that sheds new light on one of the most important and tragic episodes in recent history...