Unveiling the Afghan ‘Zero Units’: The Shadowy Force Behind the National Guard Shooting Suspect
Recent revelations surrounding the suspect in the National Guard shooting have brought renewed attention to the controversial Afghan ‘Zero Units’—elite, covert military forces that operated with significant autonomy and often outside the public eye. These units, officially known as the Afghan National Army Special Operations Corps (ANASOC), were trained and funded by the United States and played a pivotal role in counterterrorism operations during the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan.
Origins and Structure
The ‘Zero Units’ emerged in the mid-2000s as part of a broader effort to build Afghan capacity for counterinsurgency and counterterrorism. Comprised of highly trained commandos, these units were modeled after U.S. Special Forces and tasked with conducting high-risk missions, including raids, hostage rescues, and targeted killings. Their designation as ‘Zero Units’ stemmed from their unique status: they were not assigned to any regular military division, instead reporting directly to the Afghan Ministry of Defense and, at times, to U.S. Special Operations Command.
Recruitment for these units was rigorous, with candidates selected from the most capable soldiers across the Afghan National Army. Training was intensive, often conducted by U.S. Green Berets and other allied special forces. The units were equipped with advanced weaponry and technology, and their operations were shrouded in secrecy, with little public oversight.
Role in the War in Afghanistan
Throughout the conflict, the Zero Units were instrumental in targeting Taliban and ISIS-K leaders, disrupting insurgent networks, and conducting operations in some of Afghanistan’s most dangerous regions. Their effectiveness earned them a reputation as the most capable and lethal force within the Afghan military. However, their autonomy and lack of transparency also led to allegations of human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings and civilian casualties.
Reports from human rights organizations and investigative journalists have documented cases where Zero Units were accused of operating with impunity, sometimes carrying out raids that resulted in the deaths of non-combatants. These incidents sparked controversy both within Afghanistan and among international observers, raising questions about accountability and the long-term impact of such forces on Afghan society.
Connection to the National Guard Shooting Suspect
The recent National Guard shooting suspect’s reported involvement with the Zero Units has further intensified scrutiny of these elite forces. According to sources, the suspect served as a translator and liaison for the Zero Units during his deployment in Afghanistan. His role would have placed him in close proximity to high-stakes operations and exposed him to the intense psychological pressures associated with such work.
Experts suggest that the suspect’s experience with the Zero Units may have contributed to the trauma and stress that some veterans face after returning from combat zones. The secretive nature of these units, combined with the high-stakes missions they undertook, can leave lasting psychological scars. Mental health professionals have long warned about the risks of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues among veterans who served in elite or covert units.
Legacy and Aftermath
With the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan in 2021, the future of the Zero Units remains uncertain. Many of their members were evacuated alongside U.S. personnel, while others were left behind as the Taliban regained control of the country. The legacy of these units is complex: they were both celebrated for their effectiveness and criticized for their lack of accountability.
As the investigation into the National Guard shooting continues, the spotlight on the Zero Units serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of covert military operations and the challenges faced by those who served in them. The story of these elite Afghan forces is not just a chapter in the history of the war in Afghanistan—it is a reflection of the broader issues surrounding military secrecy, accountability, and the long-term consequences of war.
Looking Ahead
As policymakers and the public grapple with the aftermath of the conflict in Afghanistan, the story of the Zero Units offers important lessons about the need for transparency, oversight, and support for veterans. The experiences of those who served in these units, including the National Guard shooting suspect, highlight the importance of addressing the psychological and social challenges faced by veterans and ensuring that the legacy of these forces is understood in its full complexity.