Some 5,200 US troops at Kabul airport oversee evacuation

19/08/2021

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WASHINGTON, Aug 19: The US has a total 5,200 troops deployed at Kabul airport who have so far safeguarded the evacuation of 7,000 Americans and Afghans ahead of the August 31 troops withdrawal deadline, the Pentagon said on Thursday. “Kabul airport remains secure and open for flight operations. There are now multiple gates that have access for entry into the airfield, which will help expedite processing in a safe and orderly manner,” Army Major Gen Hank Taylor told a briefing.

Afghan security guards stand on a wall as hundreds of people gather outside the international airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Aug. 17. The Taliban declared an ‘amnesty’ across Afghanistan and urged women to join their government Tuesday, seeking to convince a wary population that they have changed a day after deadly chaos gripped the main airport as desperate crowds tried to fl ee the country. (AP)

The US has also accelerated its aircraft and airlift capabilities in order to expedite the process, he added. “We have not experienced any security incidents nor interference,” said the general. However, he reiterated that the US military will “respond” if provoked by the Taliban. The US has intended to “move as many people out as possible” since airlift operations started on August 14, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters. “If and when there is a decision to change that deadline, then obviously that would require additional conversations with the Taliban,” Kirby added.(KUNA)

This news has been read 18303 times!

19/08/2021