Gen. David Petraeus lifted the ban on fast-food restaurants on military bases in Afghanistan on Monday, ending an eight-month ban enacted by his predecessor.

Gen. David Petraeus (Creative Commons)

"These quality-of-life programs remain important to soldiers for stress relief and therefore enhancing military readiness," Petraeus said in the order released Monday.

The former top commander in Afghanistan, Gen. Stanley McChrystal, ordered the closure of more than 50 fast-food restaurants in February, in an attempt to eliminate distractions to troops.

After McChrystal's order, 57 eateries were closed, including Burger King, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut restaurants.

Reach associate news editor Taylor Freitas here. Follow her on Twitter: @taylorfreitas.

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