Two days before the self-imposed deadline for withdrawing military forces, the U.S.-led coalition told Afghans waiting to be airlifted out of that country that the evacuations were finished. "We regret to inform you that international military evacuations from Kabul airport have ended, and we are no longer able to call anyone forward for evacuation flights," said a text message late Saturday night.
One wonders why not continue the efforts, if at all possible -- if the Taliban will allow it. The evacuation has seen 117,000 leave the country, but thousands are being left behind.
And, why not continue the airlift at least through the Aug. 31 deadline? Is it because their paperwork cannot be processed in two days? Efforts to save those who can be saved should not end if they do not have to.
Now, despite the notice that evacuations are ceasing, there's this: "Our commitment to continue to help people leave Afghanistan who want to leave and who are not out by Sept. 1 -- that endures," said Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken. '
Confusing, but hopefully more people will be allowed to get out.
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