Two suicide bombs set off at a busy gathering area outside of Kabul’s airport killed an unknown number of Afghan citizens and U.S. soldiers.
The attack is believed to have been orchestrated by the ISIS terrorist group, an enemy of the new Taliban government in Afghanistan.
Statement from U.S. Sen. Mark Warner:
“I am closely tracking the horrifying situation in Kabul and will remain in touch with intelligence and administration officials as we learn more about today’s attacks. As we await more information regarding the casualties, my thoughts will be with our troops and with the innocent people killed in these brutal acts of terror. We must do everything we can to stabilize the situation outside the airport so that we can resume evacuations of American citizens, SIVs, and the Afghans most in danger as soon as possible. We all owe an enormous debt of gratitude to U.S. servicemembers who are carrying out the mission on the ground despite the great danger and challenges they are facing.”
Statement from U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine:
“I am closely monitoring the horrific attack at the Kabul airport. My prayers are with the innocent victims and their loved ones. It’s critical that we do all we can to secure the area so we can prioritize the safe and swift evacuation of U.S. citizens and at risk Afghan allies. I thank our servicemembers on the ground for their bravery in helping carry out this vital mission.”
Statement from Congressman Donald McEachin (D-VA-04):
“The death of American troops and Afghans caused by the complex attacks suspected to be carried out by ISIS-K is a devastating development to the complicated situation in Afghanistan. My thoughts and prayers are with our brave armed forces and their families during this challenging time.
“I commend the American troops and State Department officials who are working tirelessly and heroically to evacuate U.S. personnel and our Afghan allies from the region. We will need to investigate the processes and decisions that have allowed the situation to deteriorate to this level. In the meantime, our entire focus and energy must be on the safe and expeditious completion of this mission. We must ensure the rapid evacuation and safety of all U.S. citizens and SIV-holders who are at risk of reprisal from the Taliban or ISIS-K.
“I have the utmost respect and gratitude for our servicemembers, who continue to display true courage and heroism during this dangerous and difficult mission. Today’s loss of life is a heartbreaking tragedy. My office stands ready to assist the administration and federal agencies however we can.”
Statement from Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA-09):
“Praying for our troops who are risking their lives in Afghanistan to safely evacuate Americans and our Afghan allies. My heart goes out to the families of our brave service members who have lost their lives or have been wounded in today’s attack.”
Story by Chris Graham
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