The Pentagon announced Monday that the last US troops had left Afghanistan. However, the Taliban fired their guns in the air celebrating victory after a 20-year long war.

Pentagon & Taliban confirm final US soldier leaves Afghanistan

The United States completed the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan, ending 20 years of war. The withdrawal came before the end of the August 31 deadline.

US completes military withdrawal from Afghanistan after 20-year war

With the US troop withdrawal finally over, former president Donald Trump said that never in history has a withdrawal from war been handled so badly or incompetently as by Americans from Afghanistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The United States flew its last military flight out of Kabul to bring back all of its armed forces from the war-torn country. The move marked the end of the America's longest war.

Watch | Gravitas: Thanks to America, Taliban now has an Air Force

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In the aftermath, the Taliban has regained control in the country, which they lost after the US invasion in retaliation for the 9/11 attacks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Never in history has a withdrawal from war been handled so badly or incompetently as the Biden administration's withdrawal from Afghanistan," Trump said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/major-general-chris-donahue-last-us-soldier-to-leave-afghanistan-409547" hreflang="en">Major General Chris Donahue: Last US soldier to leave Afghanistan</a> &nbsp;

"In addition to the obvious, ALL EQUIPMENT should be demanded to be immediately returned to the United States, and that includes every penny of the USD 85 billion dollars in cost," the former president said. &nbsp;

"If it is not handed back, we should either go in with unequivocal military force and get it, or at least bomb the hell out of it. Nobody ever thought such stupidity, as this feeble-brained withdrawal, was possible!" he added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the US troop withdrawal finally over, former president Donald Trump said that never in history has a withdrawal from war been handled so badly or incompetently as by Americans from Afghanistan.

With the US troop withdrawal finally over, former president Donald Trump said that never in history has a withdrawal from war been handled so badly or incompetently as by Americans from Afghanistan. The United States flew its last military flight out of Kabul to bring back all of its armed forces from the war-torn country. The move marked the end of the America's longest war. Watch | Gravitas: Thanks to America, Taliban now has an Air Force × In the aftermath, the Taliban has regained control in the country, which they lost after the US invasion in retaliation for the 9/11 attacks. "Never in history has a withdrawal from war been handled so badly or incompetently as the Biden administration's withdrawal from Afghanistan," Trump said. Also Read | Major General Chris Donahue: Last US soldier to leave Afghanistan "In addition to the obvious, ALL EQUIPMENT should be demanded to be immediately returned to the United States, and that includes every penny of the USD 85 billion dollars in cost," the former president said. "If it is not handed back, we should either go in with unequivocal military force and get it, or at least bomb the hell out of it. Nobody ever thought such stupidity, as this feeble-brained withdrawal, was possible!" he added. (With inputs from agencies)

With last US military flight out of Kabul, Trump slams worst withdrawal from war in history

US President Joe Biden is facing criticism over appearing to look at his watch during a ceremony for the 13 US service members killed in an ISIS-K suicide bombing near the Kabul airport.

Biden faces heat online for checking time while honouring fallen troops

As the United States completed the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan the Taliban fired their guns in the air celebrating victory after a 20-year long war.

Taliban fire guns in the air to celebrate victory after US troops leaves Afghan

The last US soldier has left Afghanistan and the Taliban has taken control over the country. Two superpowers, Russia and the US have bitten the dust in Afghanistan.

WION Live Broadcast: Last US soldier leaves Afghanistan

20-year-old US military presence in Afghanistan has come to an end and the US troops have taken an exit from the country.

WION Live Broadcast: America's Longest War Ends

Taliban conducts first press briefing after US' exit from Afghanistan. "We need to bring out eternal talents," says the Taliban and adds that they "need economic experts to step forward."

Taliban conducts first press briefing after US' exit from Afghanistan

Gravitas | Thanks to America, Taliban now has an Air Force. From choppers to jets to attack planes, the U.S. left behind an entire fleet on a platter. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how America has a history of arming terror groups.

Gravitas: Thanks to America, Taliban now has an Air Force

Five states in the US are nearly out of ICU beds as a&nbsp;surge in COVID-19 cases, especially among unvaccinated people, pose a fresh set of problems for the hospitals who are already stretched to their maximum capacity.

According to data from the department of health and human services, Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Florida and Arkansas are left with less than 10% of their ICU bed capacity.

On Monday, data shared by a vaccine adviser from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed a hospitalization rate 16 times higher in the unvaccinated population than in those vaccinated.

“This to me seems to be a strong indication that the current epidemiologic curve that we're seeing is really a reflection of failure to vaccinate, not vaccine failure," Dr Matthew F Daley at the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices meeting told the CNN.

In Georgia, CEO of Northeast Georgia Health Systems Carol Burrell said it had 287 Covid patients on Monday, which is more than the hospital has had since January.

“So, in essence, our hospitals are full," she said, adding, “We're looking to add space in hallways and conference rooms in waiting areas. Our emergency rooms and our urgent care centres are seeing higher volume than they've seen throughout this pandemic."

Kentucky governor Andy Beshear the effect of low vaccination rates are being witnessed in his states where hospitals are overwhelmed with record numbers of COVID-19 patients and 58 of the 96 hospitals are reporting critical staffing shortages.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-recorded-highest-new-covid-19-cases-worldwide-in-past-week-who-401286">US recorded highest new COVID-19 cases worldwide in past week: WHO</a>

"We're living in a reality where some Covid patients who are sick are being treated in their cars when there isn't room for them inside the ER or inside the hospital," CNN quoted Beshear as saying.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the number of rising cases has also been reported among children, with the number of kids testing positive for Covid-19 earlier this month reaching higher levels than last year.

In Florida's 15 largest school districts, at least 21,869 students and 4,481 employees have tested positive for Covid-19 since the start of school, according to a CNN analysis.

In Texas, after just the first two weeks of school in the Fort Worth Independent School District, more than 3,000 students have been quarantined due to close contact with individuals who tested positive for Covid-19.

On Monday, the US reported 2,80,403 coronavirus cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

Five states in the US are nearly out of ICU beds as a surge in COVID-19 cases, especially among unvaccinated people, pose a fresh set of problems for the hospitals who are already stretched to their maximum capacity.

Five states in the US are nearly out of ICU beds as a surge in COVID-19 cases, especially among unvaccinated people, pose a fresh set of problems for the hospitals who are already stretched to their maximum capacity. According to data from the department of health and human services, Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Florida and Arkansas are left with less than 10% of their ICU bed capacity. On Monday, data shared by a vaccine adviser from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed a hospitalization rate 16 times higher in the unvaccinated population than in those vaccinated. “This to me seems to be a strong indication that the current epidemiologic curve that we're seeing is really a reflection of failure to vaccinate, not vaccine failure," Dr Matthew F Daley at the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices meeting told the CNN. In Georgia, CEO of Northeast Georgia Health Systems Carol Burrell said it had 287 Covid patients on Monday, which is more than the hospital has had since January. “So, in essence, our hospitals are full," she said, adding, “We're looking to add space in hallways and conference rooms in waiting areas. Our emergency rooms and our urgent care centres are seeing higher volume than they've seen throughout this pandemic." Kentucky governor Andy Beshear the effect of low vaccination rates are being witnessed in his states where hospitals are overwhelmed with record numbers of COVID-19 patients and 58 of the 96 hospitals are reporting critical staffing shortages. Also read | US recorded highest new COVID-19 cases worldwide in past week: WHO "We're living in a reality where some Covid patients who are sick are being treated in their cars when there isn't room for them inside the ER or inside the hospital," CNN quoted Beshear as saying. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the number of rising cases has also been reported among children, with the number of kids testing positive for Covid-19 earlier this month reaching higher levels than last year. In Florida's 15 largest school districts, at least 21,869 students and 4,481 employees have tested positive for Covid-19 since the start of school, according to a CNN analysis. In Texas, after just the first two weeks of school in the Fort Worth Independent School District, more than 3,000 students have been quarantined due to close contact with individuals who tested positive for Covid-19. On Monday, the US reported 2,80,403 coronavirus cases. (With inputs from agencies)

5 US states nearly out of ICU beds as fresh surge of COVID-19 cases stretch hospitals

US President has not won any praise on his stance on Afghanistan. The majority of Americans did not support Biden's stance. In the poll completed just before the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan, 49% said the US military should have stayed in Afghanistan.

Americans disapprove US President's stance on Afghanistan

In pics | America's longest war in Afghanistan comes to a close after 20 years

On the first day of the Taliban taking over the Kabul airport after the complete departure of the US military troops, the airport wears a deserted look. WION's Anas Mallick gets you the first look from inside the airport.

WION Ground Report: Kabul airport wears deserted look after US military complete withdrawal

One of the tasks that the United States military has completed before leaving Afghanistan was to disable aircraft, armoured vehicles, and high-tech rocket systems. WION's Anas Mallick brings you a ground report.

US military disabled aircrafts, armored vehicles before leaving Kabul airport

One of the tasks that the United States military has completed before leaving Afghanistan was to disable aircraft, armoured vehicles, and high-tech rocket systems.

Joe Biden stood hand over his heart, on Sunday, to pay tribute as the remains of the US service members killed in the Kabul bombing attack were transferred to a row of gray hearses. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and other military officers and dignitaries were part of this event.

Joe Biden pays tribute to US service members killed in Kabul bombing attack

A U.S. drone strike blew up a vehicle carrying “multiple suicide bombers” from Afghanistan's Islamic State affiliate on Sunday. This is the second drone attack of US amid crisis in Afghanistan.

US conducts drone strike on Afghanistan's Islamic State affiliate

The U.S. has carried out a second strike against suspected members of ISIS-K in Afghanistan, following the Thursday attack at the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul that killed more than 170 people.

US carries out second strike against suspected members of ISIS-K

The United States has evacuated all local Afghan staffers at its embassy in Kabul, as well as their families, ABC News reports, citing an internal report.

As of 00:30 GMT on Sunday, a total of 2,800 Afghans had left the capital city's airport, with no evacuees remaining at Kabul airport awaiting processing, according to an internal report.&nbsp;

According to The Hill, an internal State Department cable sent out last week stated that local Afghan embassy staffers were "deeply disheartened" by US evacuation operations.

The cable relayed reports of Taliban fighters harassing, spitting on, and cursing staffers at checkpoints.&nbsp;

"Our local staff and their families have faced hardship, pain, and loss as a result of their commitment to collaborating with us to create a better future for all Afghans.

Because of this, we have a special commitment to them, "according to a State Department spokesperson.

In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the United States and its partner countries reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety of their citizens and at-risk Afghans travelling outside of Afghanistan.

Since August 14, the United States has evacuated or assisted in the evacuation of approximately 114,400 people.

Approximately 120,000 people have been relocated in the United States since the end of July.&nbsp;

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said on Friday that the US will work with the Taliban to ensure the safe evacuation of people from Afghanistan after the August 31 withdrawal deadline.

"The President directed the Secretary of State to continue diplomatic efforts with international partners to secure means for third-country nationals and Afghans with visas to leave the country even after the US military presence ends," Psaki said at a press conference.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has evacuated all local Afghan staffers at its embassy in Kabul, as well as their families, ABC News reports, citing an internal report. As of 00:30 GMT on Sunday, a total of 2,800 Afghans had left the capital city's airport, with no evacuees remaining at Kabul airport awaiting processing, according to an internal report.

The United States has evacuated all local Afghan staffers at its embassy in Kabul, as well as their families, ABC News reports, citing an internal report. As of 00:30 GMT on Sunday, a total of 2,800 Afghans had left the capital city's airport, with no evacuees remaining at Kabul airport awaiting processing, according to an internal report. According to The Hill, an internal State Department cable sent out last week stated that local Afghan embassy staffers were "deeply disheartened" by US evacuation operations. The cable relayed reports of Taliban fighters harassing, spitting on, and cursing staffers at checkpoints. "Our local staff and their families have faced hardship, pain, and loss as a result of their commitment to collaborating with us to create a better future for all Afghans. Because of this, we have a special commitment to them, "according to a State Department spokesperson. In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the United States and its partner countries reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety of their citizens and at-risk Afghans travelling outside of Afghanistan. Since August 14, the United States has evacuated or assisted in the evacuation of approximately 114,400 people. Approximately 120,000 people have been relocated in the United States since the end of July. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said on Friday that the US will work with the Taliban to ensure the safe evacuation of people from Afghanistan after the August 31 withdrawal deadline. "The President directed the Secretary of State to continue diplomatic efforts with international partners to secure means for third-country nationals and Afghans with visas to leave the country even after the US military presence ends," Psaki said at a press conference. (With inputs from agencies)

US successfully evacuated all Afghan employees from the Kabul embassy

As of Monday, the European Union removed five territories, including the United States&nbsp;from its list of countries that were earlier exempt from restrictions on non-essential travel during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Visitors from the United States and the five other countries will now likely face tighter controls, such as COVID-19 tests and quarantines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-set-to-propose-travel-restrictions-on-us-visitors-409454">EU set to propose travel restrictions on US visitors</a>

In addition to the US, Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro, and North Macedonia have also been omitted from the list.

This list intends to standardise travel rules across the EU, but it does not bind the individual member states, which can still set their own border policies.

However, so far most EU members have followed Brussels' travel recommendation during the crisis.

Several EU countries, including Germany and Belgium, already categorise the United States as red and require testing and quarantines, while France and the Netherlands deem it safe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-origins-us-intelligence-community-says-it-was-not-developed-as-biological-weapon-408909">COVID-19 virus&nbsp;origins:&nbsp;US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon</a>

According to data from Our World in Data, average&nbsp;US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> cases in the week to August 28 numbered more than 450 per million people, up from under 40 when the European Union added the US to its list in mid-June.

According to the data, Israel, Kosovo, and Montenegro have an even higher rate of cases.

Non-EU visitors who have full <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">immunisations</a> are still allowed into the EU bloc, although testing and quarantines may apply, depending on the country of arrival.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-potential-covid-19-variant-of-concern-identified-in-south-africa-409448" hreflang="en">New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa</a>

With Canada, Japan, and New Zealand included on the EU safe list, now the number of safe countries is 17.&nbsp;COVID-19 issues in each country, as well as reciprocity, are heavily weighed in while assembling the list.

However, as Washington does not allow EU citizens to visit freely despite EU appeals, a&nbsp;division exists within the bloc over reciprocity and the growing number of US cases versus those that rely on tourism and would prefer not to restrict US visitor numbers.

According to a statement by the bloc, the list will be reviewed regularly and updated as needed.

(With inputs from agencies)

As of Monday, the European Union removed five territories, including the United States from its list of countries that were earlier exempt from restrictions on non-essential travel during the Coronavirus pandemic.

As of Monday, the European Union removed five territories, including the United States from its list of countries that were earlier exempt from restrictions on non-essential travel during the Coronavirus pandemic. Visitors from the United States and the five other countries will now likely face tighter controls, such as COVID-19 tests and quarantines. Also read | EU set to propose travel restrictions on US visitors In addition to the US, Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro, and North Macedonia have also been omitted from the list. This list intends to standardise travel rules across the EU, but it does not bind the individual member states, which can still set their own border policies. However, so far most EU members have followed Brussels' travel recommendation during the crisis. Several EU countries, including Germany and Belgium, already categorise the United States as red and require testing and quarantines, while France and the Netherlands deem it safe. Also read | COVID-19 virus origins: US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon According to data from Our World in Data, average US COVID-19 cases in the week to August 28 numbered more than 450 per million people, up from under 40 when the European Union added the US to its list in mid-June. According to the data, Israel, Kosovo, and Montenegro have an even higher rate of cases. Non-EU visitors who have full immunisations are still allowed into the EU bloc, although testing and quarantines may apply, depending on the country of arrival. Also read | New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa With Canada, Japan, and New Zealand included on the EU safe list, now the number of safe countries is 17. COVID-19 issues in each country, as well as reciprocity, are heavily weighed in while assembling the list. However, as Washington does not allow EU citizens to visit freely despite EU appeals, a division exists within the bloc over reciprocity and the growing number of US cases versus those that rely on tourism and would prefer not to restrict US visitor numbers. According to a statement by the bloc, the list will be reviewed regularly and updated as needed. (With inputs from agencies)

EU drops US from list of Covid-safe countries for non-essential travel

A Taliban spokesperson has condemned the US for not informing them beforehand of the drone strike, claiming that the attack resulted in civilian casualties.

The US military had said that they carried out a “self-defensive” airstrike in Kabul against a suspected member of the Afghan branch of the Islamic State group in Nangarhar province who was driving an explosive-laden car intending to bomb Hamid Karzai International Airport.

While speaking to China's state television CGTN on Monday, spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid clarified that seven people were killed in the drone attack, terming the US action on their soil as unlawful.

“If there was any potential threat in Afghanistan, it should have been reported to us, not an arbitrary attack that has resulted in civilian casualties,” Reuters quoted Mujahid’s written response to the CGTN.

However, a&nbsp;report from CNN, citing eyewitnesses on the ground,&nbsp;states that nine members of a family, including six children, were killed in the US drone strike.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/flights-take-off-from-kabul-airport-as-us-withdrawal-enters-final-stage-409389">&nbsp;Flights take off from Kabul airport as US withdrawal enters final stage</a>

Earlier in the day, Pentagon officials said the suicide car bomber had been preparing to attack the airport in Kabul, where the US army was in the final stages of a withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The US Central Command said it was investigating reports of civilian casualties from the drone strike.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hibatullah-akhundzada-talibans-reclusive-leader-set-to-play-key-role-in-afghanistan-409338">Hibatullah Akhundzada: Taliban's reclusive leader set to play key role in Afghanistan</a>

“We know that there were substantial and powerful subsequent explosions resulting from the destruction of the vehicle, indicating a large amount of explosive material inside that may have caused additional casualties," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Taliban spokesperson has condemned the US for not informing them beforehand of the drone strike, claiming that the attack resulted in civilian casualties. The US military had said that they carried out a “self-defensive” airstrike in Kabul against a suspected member of the Afghan branch of the Islamic State group in Nangarhar province who was driving an explosive-laden car intending to bomb Hamid Karzai International Airport.

A Taliban spokesperson has condemned the US for not informing them beforehand of the drone strike, claiming that the attack resulted in civilian casualties. The US military had said that they carried out a “self-defensive” airstrike in Kabul against a suspected member of the Afghan branch of the Islamic State group in Nangarhar province who was driving an explosive-laden car intending to bomb Hamid Karzai International Airport. While speaking to China's state television CGTN on Monday, spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid clarified that seven people were killed in the drone attack, terming the US action on their soil as unlawful. “If there was any potential threat in Afghanistan, it should have been reported to us, not an arbitrary attack that has resulted in civilian casualties,” Reuters quoted Mujahid’s written response to the CGTN. However, a report from CNN, citing eyewitnesses on the ground, states that nine members of a family, including six children, were killed in the US drone strike. Also read | Flights take off from Kabul airport as US withdrawal enters final stage Earlier in the day, Pentagon officials said the suicide car bomber had been preparing to attack the airport in Kabul, where the US army was in the final stages of a withdrawal from Afghanistan. The US Central Command said it was investigating reports of civilian casualties from the drone strike. Also read | Hibatullah Akhundzada: Taliban's reclusive leader set to play key role in Afghanistan “We know that there were substantial and powerful subsequent explosions resulting from the destruction of the vehicle, indicating a large amount of explosive material inside that may have caused additional casualties," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Should have informed us’: Taliban condemn ‘arbitrary’ US drone strike, claim civilians killed

Forecasters have warned residents along the northern Gulf of Mexico coast to rush preparations ahead of an intensifying Hurricane Ida, which is expected to bring winds as high as 130 mph, life-threatening storm surge and flooding rain when it slams ashore in Louisiana on Sunday.

The National Hurricane Center warned that super-warm Gulf waters could rapidly magnify Ida's destructive power, boosting it from a Category 2 storm to an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane in just 18 hours or less.

Watch |&nbsp;Biden: Another terrorist attack on Kabul airport 'highly likely' soon

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Coastal highways saw heavy traffic on Saturday as people moved to escape the storm's path. Trucks pulling saltwater fishing boats and campers streamed away from the coast Interstate 65 in south Alabama. Traffic jams clogged Interstate 10 heading out of New Orleans.

"We're going to catch it head-on," said Bebe McElroy as she prepared to leave her home in the coastal Louisiana village of Cocodrie. "I'm just going around praying, saying, Dear Lord, just watch over us."

Ida was poised to strike Louisiana 16 years to the day after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Mississippi and Louisiana coasts. A Category 3 storm, Katrina was blamed for 1,800 deaths and caused levee breaches and catastrophic flooding in New Orleans, which took years to recover.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sad-for-those-left-behind-last-uk-military-flight-leaves-afghanistan-409096" hreflang="en">'Sad for those left behind': Last UK military flight leaves Afghanistan</a>

"We're not the same state we were 16 years ago," Louisiana Governor&nbsp;John Bel Edwards said on Saturday, pointing to a federal levee system that's seen major improvements since Katrina swamped New Orleans in 2005.

"This system is going to be tested," Edwards said. "The people of Louisiana are going to be tested. But we are resilient and tough people. And we're going to get through this."

Edwards said 5,000 National Guard troops were being staged in 14 parishes for search and rescue efforts with high-water vehicles, boats and helicopters. And 10,000 linemen were on standby to respond to electrical outages.

Forecasters have warned residents along the northern Gulf of Mexico coast to rush preparations ahead of an intensifying Hurricane Ida, which is expected to bring winds as high as 130 mph, life-threatening storm surge and flooding rain when it slams ashore in Louisiana on Sunday.

Forecasters have warned residents along the northern Gulf of Mexico coast to rush preparations ahead of an intensifying Hurricane Ida, which is expected to bring winds as high as 130 mph, life-threatening storm surge and flooding rain when it slams ashore in Louisiana on Sunday. The National Hurricane Center warned that super-warm Gulf waters could rapidly magnify Ida's destructive power, boosting it from a Category 2 storm to an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane in just 18 hours or less. Watch | Biden: Another terrorist attack on Kabul airport 'highly likely' soon × Coastal highways saw heavy traffic on Saturday as people moved to escape the storm's path. Trucks pulling saltwater fishing boats and campers streamed away from the coast Interstate 65 in south Alabama. Traffic jams clogged Interstate 10 heading out of New Orleans. "We're going to catch it head-on," said Bebe McElroy as she prepared to leave her home in the coastal Louisiana village of Cocodrie. "I'm just going around praying, saying, Dear Lord, just watch over us." Ida was poised to strike Louisiana 16 years to the day after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Mississippi and Louisiana coasts. A Category 3 storm, Katrina was blamed for 1,800 deaths and caused levee breaches and catastrophic flooding in New Orleans, which took years to recover. Also Read: 'Sad for those left behind': Last UK military flight leaves Afghanistan "We're not the same state we were 16 years ago," Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards said on Saturday, pointing to a federal levee system that's seen major improvements since Katrina swamped New Orleans in 2005. "This system is going to be tested," Edwards said. "The people of Louisiana are going to be tested. But we are resilient and tough people. And we're going to get through this." Edwards said 5,000 National Guard troops were being staged in 14 parishes for search and rescue efforts with high-water vehicles, boats and helicopters. And 10,000 linemen were on standby to respond to electrical outages.

Hurricane Ida strengthens, Louisiana braces for severe blow

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday spoke to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and discussed the latest developments in Afghanistan. This marks the third conversation held in August between the two leaders on Afghan crisis.

Indian FM Jaishankar discusses Afghan crisis with US State Secy Blinken

President Joe Biden has warned that another terrorist attack on the Kabul airport is “highly likely” in the next 24 to 36 hours, as the US rushed to evacuate the few remaining Americans and Afghan allies ahead of the August 31 deadline to withdraw from Afghanistan.

Biden: Another terrorist attack on Kabul airport 'highly likely' soon

The clock is certainly ticking, in three days all foreign troops will leave Afghanistan as per the deadline set for US troops withdrawal after 20 years of war but the world is dreading a thought that what will happen after August 31 in Afghanistan? WION brings you a report.

Taliban vows 'consequences' if deadline not met

US President Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;traveled to the Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Sunday morning&nbsp;to pay respects to the 13 service members who were killed in Kabul in an attack earlier in the week.

Biden&nbsp;and his wife, Jill, "will meet with the families of fallen American service members who gave their lives to save Americans, our partners, and our Afghan allies in Kabul," ahead of a transfer of the remains, according to the president's daily schedule.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-loud-explosion-heard-in-kabul-few-hours-after-bidens-warning-409224">Also read |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul few hours after Biden's warning</a>

Thursday's attack, which was claimed by ISIS-K,&nbsp;the Afghan affiliate of Islamic State, was the most lethal incident or&nbsp;US&nbsp;service members in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;in a decade.

The bombing took place just outside the gates of the airport, where thousands of people have gathered to try to get a flight out since the Taliban returned to power on August&nbsp;15..

Biden&nbsp;has vowed to punish those responsible for the airport bomb.

The&nbsp;US military said on Saturday that it had&nbsp;killed&nbsp;two ISIS-K militants in a drone attack in&nbsp;Afghanistan.

This comes in after a loud explosion was heard in the capital city of Afghanistan.

While it is not yet clear where exactly did the explosion happen, smoke was seen rising from the&nbsp;Khwaja Bugra area in PD15.

As per local reports, it is being believed by the locals that the source of the explosion was a rocket that has hit a house near the north gate of Kabul airport. However, the airport has not been hit.

US President Joe Biden traveled to the Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Sunday morning to pay respects to the 13 service members who were killed in Kabul in an attack earlier in the week.

US President Joe Biden traveled to the Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Sunday morning to pay respects to the 13 service members who were killed in Kabul in an attack earlier in the week. Biden and his wife, Jill, "will meet with the families of fallen American service members who gave their lives to save Americans, our partners, and our Afghan allies in Kabul," ahead of a transfer of the remains, according to the president's daily schedule. Also read | Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul few hours after Biden's warning Thursday's attack, which was claimed by ISIS-K, the Afghan affiliate of Islamic State, was the most lethal incident or US service members in Afghanistan in a decade. The bombing took place just outside the gates of the airport, where thousands of people have gathered to try to get a flight out since the Taliban returned to power on August 15.. Biden has vowed to punish those responsible for the airport bomb. The US military said on Saturday that it had killed two ISIS-K militants in a drone attack in Afghanistan. This comes in after a loud explosion was heard in the capital city of Afghanistan. While it is not yet clear where exactly did the explosion happen, smoke was seen rising from the Khwaja Bugra area in PD15. As per local reports, it is being believed by the locals that the source of the explosion was a rocket that has hit a house near the north gate of Kabul airport. However, the airport has not been hit.

Biden visits US air base to pay tribute to service personnel killed in Kabul

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday to discuss the Afghanistan crisis.&nbsp;

Jaishankar said on Twitter, "Spoke to US Secretary of State Blinken. Continued our discussions on Afghanistan. Also exchanged views on the agenda of UNSC." &nbsp;

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Spoke to US Secretary of State <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Secblinken</a>. 
 
Continued our discussions on Afghanistan. Also exchanged views on the agenda of UNSC.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1431675500083113984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The US secretary of state also said he and Jaishankar discussed shared priorities of the two countries, which include continued coordination on Afghanistan.&nbsp;

In a tweet, the US secretary of state said, "Spoke with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar today to discuss our shared priorities including continued coordination on Afghanistan and in the United Nations. Look forward to continuing to deepen our partnership."&nbsp;

Watch | News Alert: United States Lawmakers question President Joe Biden

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US State Department spokesperson Ned Price also said Blinken and Jaishankar agreed to remain "closely coordinated on shared goals and priorities to deepen the US-India partnership."&nbsp;

Earlier, India had strongly condemned the deadly bomb blasts that rocked Afghanistan's capital city Kabul. The statement released by India's Ministry of External Affairs read, "India strongly condemns the bomb blasts in Kabul today. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of this terrorist attack."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/attack-highly-likely-in-next-24-36-hours-says-biden-on-kabul-airport-409079" hreflang="en">Attack highly likely in next 24-36 hours, says Biden on Kabul airport</a>

"Our thoughts and prayers also go out to the injured. Today’s attacks reinforce the need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism and all those who provide sanctuaries to terrorists," the statement added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks and the United States President Joe Biden said that he has seen "no evidence" that the Taliban colluded with Islamic State militants in carrying out the deadly attacks.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday to discuss the Afghanistan crisis. Jaishankar said on Twitter, "Spoke to US Secretary of State Blinken.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday to discuss the Afghanistan crisis. Jaishankar said on Twitter, "Spoke to US Secretary of State Blinken. Continued our discussions on Afghanistan. Also exchanged views on the agenda of UNSC." Spoke to US Secretary of State @Secblinken. Continued our discussions on Afghanistan. Also exchanged views on the agenda of UNSC. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 28, 2021 × The US secretary of state also said he and Jaishankar discussed shared priorities of the two countries, which include continued coordination on Afghanistan. In a tweet, the US secretary of state said, "Spoke with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar today to discuss our shared priorities including continued coordination on Afghanistan and in the United Nations. Look forward to continuing to deepen our partnership." Watch | News Alert: United States Lawmakers question President Joe Biden × US State Department spokesperson Ned Price also said Blinken and Jaishankar agreed to remain "closely coordinated on shared goals and priorities to deepen the US-India partnership." Earlier, India had strongly condemned the deadly bomb blasts that rocked Afghanistan's capital city Kabul. The statement released by India's Ministry of External Affairs read, "India strongly condemns the bomb blasts in Kabul today. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of this terrorist attack." Also Read: Attack highly likely in next 24-36 hours, says Biden on Kabul airport "Our thoughts and prayers also go out to the injured. Today’s attacks reinforce the need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism and all those who provide sanctuaries to terrorists," the statement added. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks and the United States President Joe Biden said that he has seen "no evidence" that the Taliban colluded with Islamic State militants in carrying out the deadly attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian external affairs minister, US secretary of state discuss Afghan crisis

US&nbsp;forces were in the final phase of pulling out of Kabul, ending two decades of costly involvement in&nbsp;Afghanistan, as the country's new Taliban rulers prepared to take control of the airport.

An explosion was heard near the airport, witnesses said, and television footage showed black smoke rising into the sky but there was no immediate word on any casualties.

Two witnesses said the blast appeared to have been caused by a rocket that hit a house in an area to the northern side of the airport but there was no immediate confirmation.

Just over 1,000 civilians remained at the airport on Sunday to be flown out before the troops finally leave, a Western security official told Reuters.

"We want to ensure that every foreign civilian and those who are at risk are evacuated today. Forces will start flying out once this process is over," said the official, who is stationed at the airport.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-loud-explosion-heard-in-kabul-as-us-official-admits-military-strike-carried-out-in-same-area-409224">Also read |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul as US official admits military strike carried out in same area</a>

US&nbsp;President&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;has said he will stick by his deadline to withdraw all U.S. troops&nbsp;from&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;by Tuesday. A US&nbsp;official told Reuters on Saturday that fewer than 4,000 troops remained at the airport.

US&nbsp;and allied forces have mounted a massive two-week effort to ferry foreign nationals and tens of thousands of vulnerable Afghans out of the country.

The airlift, one of the biggest such evacuation operations ever, marked the end of a 20-year Western mission in Afghanistan that began when US led forces ousted a Taliban government that had provided&nbsp;safe&nbsp;haven for the perpetrators of the September&nbsp;11, 2001 attacks on the United States.

The final chapter came quickly after the United States and the Taliban made a deal to end the foreign involvement. The Western-backed government and Afghan army melted away as Taliban fighters swept across the country and took control of Kabul on August&nbsp;15.

The United States and allies have taken about 114,400 people out of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;in the past two weeks, but tens of thousands who want to go will be left behind.

"We tried every option because our lives are in danger. They (the&nbsp;Americans&nbsp;or foreigners) must show us a way to be saved. We should leave&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;or they should provide a&nbsp;safe&nbsp;place for us," said one woman outside the airport.

A Taliban official told Reuters the Islamist group had engineers and technicians ready to take charge of the airport.

"We are waiting for the final nod&nbsp;from&nbsp;the&nbsp;Americans&nbsp;to secure full control over Kabul airport as both sides aim for a swift handover," said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Britain's last military flight left Kabul on Saturday night after a chaotic two weeks at the airport that was plunged into a bloodbath on Thursday when an Islamic State suicide bomb attack outside the airport gates killed at least 90 Afghans and 13 American troops.

Biden&nbsp;headed on Sunday to Dover Air Force Base to honour members of the US&nbsp;military killed in the attack as their remains were returned to the United States.

A top US official&nbsp;said the&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;administration expects the Taliban to continue allowing&nbsp;safe&nbsp;passage&nbsp;for&nbsp;Americans&nbsp;and others to leave&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;after the U.S. military withdrawal is completed.

"The Taliban have both communicated privately and publicly that they will allow for&nbsp;safe&nbsp;passage," said Jake Sullivan,&nbsp;Biden's national security adviser, in a CBS TV interview set to be broadcast Sunday.

FINANCIAL AND HUMANITARIAN CRISIS

The collapse of the Afghan government leaves an administrative vacuum that has led to fears of an economic crisis and widespread hunger.

Prices for commodities like flour, oil and rice are rapidly rising and the currency is plunging, with money changers across the border in Pakistan already refusing to accept the afghani.

On Saturday, officials ordered banks to re-open and imposed a limit on withdrawals of $200 or 20,000 afghani. Long queues forming outside bank branches of people trying to get money out.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has said the difficulties will subside quickly once the new administration is up and running.

But with its economy shattered by decades of war,&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;is now facing the end of billions of dollars in foreign aid poured in by Western donors.

Mujahid said the Taliban would announce a full cabinet in the coming days. It had appointed governors and police chiefs in all but one of&nbsp;Afghanistan's 34 provinces, he said.

It also appealed to the United States and other Western nations to maintain diplomatic relations after withdrawing. Britain said that should happen only if the Taliban allow&nbsp;safe&nbsp;passage&nbsp;for those who want to leave and respect human rights.

The Taliban's 1996-2001 rule was marked by a harsh version of sharia, Islamic law, with many political rights and basic freedoms curtailed and women severely oppressed.

Afghanistan&nbsp;was also a hub for anti-Western militants, and Washington, London and others fear it might become so again.

CITY CALM

While Kabul's airport has been in chaos, the rest of the city has been generally calm. The Taliban have told residents to hand over government equipment including weapons and vehicles within a week.

The Western security official said crowds at the airport gates had diminished after a specific warning&nbsp;from&nbsp;the U.S. government of another attack by ISIS-K, the branch of Islamic State in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;that is an enemy of both the West and the Taliban.

The United States said on Saturday it had killed two ISIS-K militants.&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;had vowed to hunt down the perpetrators of the explosion and said the strike was not the last.

The Taliban condemned the US drone strike, which took place in Nangarhar province, an eastern area that borders Pakistan.

The airport attack added fuel to criticism&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;faced at home and abroad for the chaos. He has defended his decisions, saying the United States long ago achieved its rationale for invading in 2001.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Britain would not have wished to leave&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;in such a manner.

But Richard Dannatt, a former head of the British army, said the government need to investigate why it was so ill-prepared for the rapid fall of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;to the Taliban.

"It is unfathomable why it would appear that the government was asleep on watch," Dannat told Times Radio.

US forces were in the final phase of pulling out of Kabul, ending two decades of costly involvement in Afghanistan, as the country's new Taliban rulers prepared to take control of the airport.

US forces were in the final phase of pulling out of Kabul, ending two decades of costly involvement in Afghanistan, as the country's new Taliban rulers prepared to take control of the airport. An explosion was heard near the airport, witnesses said, and television footage showed black smoke rising into the sky but there was no immediate word on any casualties. Two witnesses said the blast appeared to have been caused by a rocket that hit a house in an area to the northern side of the airport but there was no immediate confirmation. Just over 1,000 civilians remained at the airport on Sunday to be flown out before the troops finally leave, a Western security official told Reuters. "We want to ensure that every foreign civilian and those who are at risk are evacuated today. Forces will start flying out once this process is over," said the official, who is stationed at the airport. Also read | Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul as US official admits military strike carried out in same area US President Joe Biden has said he will stick by his deadline to withdraw all U.S. troops from Afghanistan by Tuesday. A US official told Reuters on Saturday that fewer than 4,000 troops remained at the airport. US and allied forces have mounted a massive two-week effort to ferry foreign nationals and tens of thousands of vulnerable Afghans out of the country. The airlift, one of the biggest such evacuation operations ever, marked the end of a 20-year Western mission in Afghanistan that began when US led forces ousted a Taliban government that had provided safe haven for the perpetrators of the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States. The final chapter came quickly after the United States and the Taliban made a deal to end the foreign involvement. The Western-backed government and Afghan army melted away as Taliban fighters swept across the country and took control of Kabul on August 15. The United States and allies have taken about 114,400 people out of Afghanistan in the past two weeks, but tens of thousands who want to go will be left behind. "We tried every option because our lives are in danger. They (the Americans or foreigners) must show us a way to be saved. We should leave Afghanistan or they should provide a safe place for us," said one woman outside the airport. A Taliban official told Reuters the Islamist group had engineers and technicians ready to take charge of the airport. "We are waiting for the final nod from the Americans to secure full control over Kabul airport as both sides aim for a swift handover," said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Britain's last military flight left Kabul on Saturday night after a chaotic two weeks at the airport that was plunged into a bloodbath on Thursday when an Islamic State suicide bomb attack outside the airport gates killed at least 90 Afghans and 13 American troops. Biden headed on Sunday to Dover Air Force Base to honour members of the US military killed in the attack as their remains were returned to the United States. A top US official said the Biden administration expects the Taliban to continue allowing safe passage for Americans and others to leave Afghanistan after the U.S. military withdrawal is completed. "The Taliban have both communicated privately and publicly that they will allow for safe passage," said Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security adviser, in a CBS TV interview set to be broadcast Sunday. FINANCIAL AND HUMANITARIAN CRISIS The collapse of the Afghan government leaves an administrative vacuum that has led to fears of an economic crisis and widespread hunger. Prices for commodities like flour, oil and rice are rapidly rising and the currency is plunging, with money changers across the border in Pakistan already refusing to accept the afghani. On Saturday, officials ordered banks to re-open and imposed a limit on withdrawals of $200 or 20,000 afghani. Long queues forming outside bank branches of people trying to get money out. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has said the difficulties will subside quickly once the new administration is up and running. But with its economy shattered by decades of war, Afghanistan is now facing the end of billions of dollars in foreign aid poured in by Western donors. Mujahid said the Taliban would announce a full cabinet in the coming days. It had appointed governors and police chiefs in all but one of Afghanistan's 34 provinces, he said. It also appealed to the United States and other Western nations to maintain diplomatic relations after withdrawing. Britain said that should happen only if the Taliban allow safe passage for those who want to leave and respect human rights. The Taliban's 1996-2001 rule was marked by a harsh version of sharia, Islamic law, with many political rights and basic freedoms curtailed and women severely oppressed. Afghanistan was also a hub for anti-Western militants, and Washington, London and others fear it might become so again. CITY CALM While Kabul's airport has been in chaos, the rest of the city has been generally calm. The Taliban have told residents to hand over government equipment including weapons and vehicles within a week. The Western security official said crowds at the airport gates had diminished after a specific warning from the U.S. government of another attack by ISIS-K, the branch of Islamic State in Afghanistan that is an enemy of both the West and the Taliban. The United States said on Saturday it had killed two ISIS-K militants. Biden had vowed to hunt down the perpetrators of the explosion and said the strike was not the last. The Taliban condemned the US drone strike, which took place in Nangarhar province, an eastern area that borders Pakistan. The airport attack added fuel to criticism Biden faced at home and abroad for the chaos. He has defended his decisions, saying the United States long ago achieved its rationale for invading in 2001. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Britain would not have wished to leave Afghanistan in such a manner. But Richard Dannatt, a former head of the British army, said the government need to investigate why it was so ill-prepared for the rapid fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban. "It is unfathomable why it would appear that the government was asleep on watch," Dannat told Times Radio.

US in final phase of Kabul evacuations, Taliban prepares government

Thousands of people are demonstrating in the United States capital and in several cities across the country to demand voting rights protection.

This comes amid a barrage of state-level legislation that might impose ballot restrictions.

Held on the anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr’s historic 1963 March on Washington, organisers of the “March On For Voting Rights” rally said that the efforts to curb voting access disproportionately affect people of colour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-loud-explosion-heard-in-kabul-few-hours-after-bidens-warning-409224">Also read |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul few hours after Biden's warning</a>

In Washington, DC, protesters were seen holding “Black Lives Matter” flags and signs calling for federal legislation marched from McPherson Square towards the final meeting point at the National Mall, where King gave his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech 58 years ago.

Other marches were planned in Phoenix, Miami, Atlanta, and dozens of other US cities.

Thousands of people are demonstrating in the United States capital and in several cities across the country to demand voting rights protection. This comes amid a barrage of state-level legislation that might impose ballot restrictions.

Thousands of people are demonstrating in the United States capital and in several cities across the country to demand voting rights protection. This comes amid a barrage of state-level legislation that might impose ballot restrictions. Held on the anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr’s historic 1963 March on Washington, organisers of the “March On For Voting Rights” rally said that the efforts to curb voting access disproportionately affect people of colour. Also read | Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul few hours after Biden's warning In Washington, DC, protesters were seen holding “Black Lives Matter” flags and signs calling for federal legislation marched from McPherson Square towards the final meeting point at the National Mall, where King gave his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech 58 years ago. Other marches were planned in Phoenix, Miami, Atlanta, and dozens of other US cities.

People march across US to demand voting rights protection

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