The United States has been engaged in the War in Afghanistan since 2001 following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Over 1,196 U.S. troops have died and the war has cost $285 billion to date. The war has severely impacted both U.S. and Afghan families through loss of life and ongoing violence and instability in Afghanistan. Many argue the U.S. should begin withdrawing troops from Afghanistan, though others believe this could further destabilize the region. There are ongoing debates around how to best bring peace and security to Afghanistan.