The Rest Is Classified: Episode 3 - CIA vs the Taliban: Behind Enemy Lines (Ep 1)
Release Date: December 4, 2024
Hosts: David McCloskey & Gordon Corera

Introduction: The Dawn of a Covert Operation

In the premiere episode of "CIA vs the Taliban: Behind Enemy Lines," hosts David McCloskey, a former CIA analyst turned spy novelist, and veteran security correspondent Gordon Corera delve into the harrowing and clandestine efforts of the CIA in the immediate aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. This episode sets the stage for a deep exploration of espionage, strategy, and the intricate dynamics of Afghan tribal politics.

Afghanistan's Complex Tapestry: Ethnicity and Conflict [02:16]

David McCloskey opens by painting a vivid picture of Afghanistan's deeply fragmented society. He explains, “Afghanistan is a patchwork of ethnic groups... half the population are not Pashtuns and have really resisted... domination by Pashtuns” ([06:02]). This diversity, coupled with decades of civil war and external interventions, created a landscape fraught with mistrust and violence. The Taliban, predominantly Pashtun, had seized control of Kabul in 1998, establishing the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and providing a haven for Osama bin Laden and Al Qaeda.

The CIA's Strategic Shift: From Spectator to Actor [03:55]

Gordon Corera emphasizes the CIA's unique position and historical ties to Afghanistan, stating, “The CIA is the agency that knows Afghanistan deeply... It goes back to links from the Soviet invasion when the CIA had this massive covert action program to supply the mujahideen from 1981 to 1987” ([09:29]). Post-9/11, the CIA shifted from a background role to taking center stage in the hunt for bin Laden, leveraging its extensive network of warlords and local contacts.

Assembling Team Alpha: The First Strike Behind Enemy Lines [23:21]

The heart of the episode focuses on the formation and deployment of Team Alpha, the first CIA unit inserted into Afghanistan shortly after 9/11. Comprising eight members, including seasoned paramilitary officers and linguists like David Tyson, the team was designed for speed and agility. Gordon outlines their composition: “They're a senior operations officer with deep regional expertise, paramilitary officers... a medic, a communications specialist, and linguists” ([24:15]).

Insertion into the Battlefield: High Stakes and Heavy Cash [27:15]

Team Alpha's insertion was a high-risk maneuver, executed via two Blackhawk helicopters from Uzbekistan, laden with $3 million in cash stored discreetly in duffel bags and pelican cases ([15:56]). Upon landing, the team met Abdul Rashid Dostum, an Uzbek warlord with a notorious reputation. J.R. Seeger recounts Dostum's commanding presence: “...he moved with a strength and confidence that commanded attention and respect” ([02:21]).

Building Alliances: Dostum and the Northern Alliance [19:22]

Despite Dostum’s infamous history and allegations of war crimes, the CIA recognized his strategic importance. Gordon explains, “He's not trusted by the CIA at this point... but the CIA after 9/11 needs to get in touch with him because he is crucial” ([19:22]). The alliance was pragmatic—Dostum sought to reclaim his territories and power, while the CIA aimed to dismantle the Taliban's stronghold and eliminate bin Laden.

Tactics Unveiled: Combining Modern Airpower with Ancient Cavalry [30:34]

One of the most striking aspects of Team Alpha's operations was the blend of modern and traditional warfare. The CIA collaborated with Dostum’s Uzbek horsemen, executing cavalry charges complemented by U.S. airstrikes. Gordon describes a pivotal battle strategy: “...US Air power is brought in on Taliban positions, and the Uzbeks will ride in mounted on cavalry. There'll be charges... move toward Mazari Sharif” ([32:51]). This unconventional approach leveraged the Uzbeks' superior mobility in Afghanistan’s rugged terrain.

Cultural Clashes and Operational Challenges [37:34]

Navigating cultural differences proved to be a significant hurdle. The team faced language barriers, differing communication styles, and cultural misunderstandings. A humorous yet telling anecdote highlights these challenges: an airdrop included Uzbek condoms mislabeled as rifle covers, leading to confusion and discomfort among Dostum’s men ([36:15]). J.R. Seeger reflects on the communication gap: “The Afghans are talking about the elevation of the distances... not in terms of meters or yards” ([38:19]).

Victory and Unforeseen Complications: Capturing Mazari Sharif [42:25]

Team Alpha’s efforts culminated in the swift capture of Mazari Sharif, a strategic city with the longest runway in northern Afghanistan. Gordon narrates the city's fall: “They take Mazari Sharif pretty quickly and effectively... a scene of jubilation... women are not in burqas” ([43:28]). This victory was a significant blow to the Taliban, showcasing the effectiveness of the CIA-Northern Alliance collaboration. However, underlying tensions remained as the mission's dual objectives—overthrowing the Taliban and hunting bin Laden—began to blur.

Looking Forward: The Road Ahead and Lingering Questions [44:47]

As the episode concludes, McCloskey and Corera hint at the complexities that lie ahead. While Mazari Sharif's capture was a tactical success, the Taliban and Al Qaeda were regrouping, setting the stage for more intense and historically resonant conflicts. The hosts pose critical questions about the sustainability of such alliances and the true objectives of the CIA’s intervention.

Notable Quotes:

• David McCloskey: “Afghanistan is a patchwork of ethnic groups... half the population are not Pashtuns and have really resisted... domination by Pashtuns.” ([06:02])

• Gordon Corera: “The CIA is the agency that knows Afghanistan deeply... It goes back to links from the Soviet invasion...” ([09:29])

• J.R. Seeger: “The warlord was standing in a small group of his senior officers. He moved with a strength and confidence that commanded attention and respect.” ([02:21])

• Gordon Corera: “They're going to use horseback, cavalry charges and air power. A kind of mix of old and new.” ([30:35])

• J.R. Seeger: “We're going to use you and you're going to use us until we get to Mazar.” ([35:48])

Conclusion: A Glimpse into the Shadow War

Episode 3 of "The Rest Is Classified" offers a gripping narrative of the CIA's covert operations in Afghanistan, blending historical analysis with firsthand accounts. Through the lens of Team Alpha's daring mission, listeners gain an intimate understanding of the complexities and challenges inherent in espionage and unconventional warfare. As the series progresses, it promises to unravel the intricate web of alliances, betrayals, and strategic maneuvers that have shaped modern espionage.