The incoming top commander in charge of the United States’ military efforts in Afghanistan made remarks to Congress on Thursday that suggest he sees a US presence extending overseas well past US President Barack Obama’s deadline of 2014.

Gen. Joseph Dunford told members of the Senate this week that he envisions the US continuing its operations in Afghanistan indefinitely, dismissing the president’s long-standing promise to end America’s lengthiest war during the next two years.

“[W]e’ll be there beyond 2014 to secure our objectives,” Gen. Dunford told lawmakers on the Hill early Thursday as he fielded questioning from Congress before they agree with Pres. Obama’s decision to make him the new commander of the Afghanistan war.