The US-led interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan coincided with a significant expansion of the use of quantitative methods to understand conflict dynamics. Over the course of these wars, scholars published numerous empirical studies, most focusing on a range of factors contributing to insecurity. We conduct a meta-analysis of quantitative papers published in leading social science journals, outline key findings along major themes, and reflect on the contributions and limitations of these studies to our understanding of counter-terrorism and conflict outcomes. We conclude by offering recommendations for scholars and policymakers aiming to undertake research in similar conflicts settings in the future.