Peter van Agtmael's 'Sorry for the War' Examines U.S. Post-9/11 Disconnect

The project 'Sorry for the War' by American photographer Peter van Agtmael delves into the disconnect between Americans and individuals in war-torn regions, shaped by his experiences during the terrorist attacks in Paris on November 13, 2015. This non-linear photo book, featuring both English and Arabic text, intertwines visuals from the Iraq War and the refugee crisis while critiquing U.S. militarism and propaganda. Van Agtmael underscores the lasting impacts of overlooked conflicts, citing speeches from presidents George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. The title is inspired by a note from the 'Balloons for Kabul' initiative. His insightful depiction of U.S. soldiers and links to veteran unemployment resonate with the artistic responses to conflict seen in the works of Steve McQueen and Emily Jacir.