Americans Encouraged To Leave Afghanistan Amid Taliban Takeover

Americans in Afghanistan are being urged to flee the country amid an increase in violence between Taliban militants and Afghan security forces, and as U.S. troops continue to withdraw from the country.

On Saturday, the embassy issued a statement advising Americans to get out of Afghanistan as soon as possible.

“The US Embassy urges US citizens to leave Afghanistan immediately using available commercial flight options,” the statement read.

“Given the security conditions and reduced staffing, the Embassy’s ability to assist US citizens in Afghanistan is extremely limited even within Kabul.”

The British government also told U.K. nationals to immediately leave Afghanistan.

Although the U.S. Embassy is willing to use its limited resources to try to help Americans flee Afghanistan, it advised people not to rely on the government for a flight out of the country

In April, the State Department ordered embassy workers who could do their jobs outside of Afghanistan to leave the country.

The rise in violence comes amid the Biden administration’s plan to withdraw all American troops from Afghanistan by the end of August.

The latest push to get Americans out of the country comes after the Taliban was able to overtake a second city in Afghanistan.

On Saturday, it was announced the capital Sheberghan had collapsed. However, government soldiers are still in control of the airport and army base outside of Sheberghan.

The takeover occurred one day after the Taliban gained control of Zaranj, the provincial capital of Nimruz Province.

Following news of another city falling under the control of the Taliban, the U.S. Embassy released a statement slamming the organization.

“We condemn the Taliban’s violent new offensive against Afghan cities,” the statement read.

“These Taliban actions to forcibly impose its rule are unacceptable and contradict its claim to support a negotiated settlement in the Doha peace process. They demonstrate wanton disregard for the welfare and rights of civilians and will worsen this country’s humanitarian crisis.”

The Embassy went on to call for a “comprehensive ceasefire” to end the violence and political strife.

Photo: AFP / WAKIL KOHSAR