what is operation enduring freedom

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) was the official name used by the U.S. government for the initial phase of the War in Afghanistan, spanning from October 7, 2001, to December 31, 2014. It was launched as a direct response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and targeted the Taliban regime in Afghanistan as well as Al-Qaeda terrorist networks. The mission's main objectives were to destroy terrorist training camps, capture Al-Qaeda leaders, and stop terrorist activities in Afghanistan. The operation began with coordinated airstrikes and special forces actions, supported by coalition partners, to overthrow the Taliban government that was harboring terrorists. It also included counterterrorism efforts in other regions such as the Philippines, the Horn of Africa, and the Trans-Sahara region. Humanitarian aid and support to local populations were part of the broader strategy. OEF is distinct from the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) but ran parallel to it in Afghanistan. After 2014, the combat mission referred to as Operation Enduring Freedom evolved into Operation Freedom's Sentinel. Beyond Afghanistan, OEF included multiple campaigns aimed at counterterrorism and regional stabilization around the globe, reflecting a wide-reaching and multifaceted U.S.-led military effort as part of the larger Global War on Terrorism. The operation ended officially in Afghanistan in late 2014 after more than 13 years, marking the conclusion of the combat phase, although U.S. military presence continued in different forms afterward.