International Security and Assistance Force (ISAF)

In August 2003, NATO took over the command of the International Security and Assistance Force (ISAF), which has been assisting the Afghan Government to extend and exercise its authority and influence across the country since 2002.

As such, NATO is responsible for the day-to-day planning and coordination of the force which is a coalition of the willing operating under the authority of the UN Security Council in compliance with the UN Security Council Resolution 1386. This resolution authorised the deployment of a multinational military force in and around Kabul to help stabilise the country. A Military Technical Agreement between the ISAF Commander and the Afghan Transitional Authority provides additional guidance for the force.