Diaz-Balart: President Biden's Abrupt Withdrawal from Afghanistan Had Disastrous Consequences

WASHINGTON, D.C.– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement regarding the failed Afghanistan withdrawal and the first anniversary of the attack at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul.

"Today marks one year since American troops, civilians, and Afghan allies were injured or killed by an Islamic State suicide bombing outside Kabul airport. President Biden's abrupt withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the Administration's lack of planning to protect Americans and our allies, had disastrous consequences. Leaving Afghanistan at the hands of the Taliban and surrendering billions in taxpayer-funded weapons and other military equipment to the enemy has endangered our national security and cost the lives of hundreds, including 13 U.S. Marines.

"One year after this disgraceful withdrawal, our nation continues to mourn the 13 brave service men and women who paid the ultimate price as a result of President Biden's failed Afghanistan withdrawal. The U.S. Congress has yet to receive a full explanation as to that catastrophic retreat, including how many Americans and allies were left behind, why so many Americans and allies were left behind, the vetting process for those brought to the U.S., what plans are underway to safely rescue those still trapped in Afghanistan, whether the Administration plans to destroy or recover materiel abandoned to the Taliban, and who will be held accountable for this debacle. We must get answers to ensure that these mistakes are never repeated and so that our national security interests are preserved."

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