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

The Pentagon has released the names of the 13 American service members killed in the recent suicide bombing at the Kabul airport.&nbsp;They include 11 Marines, one Navy sailor, who was assigned to a Marine Corps unit, and an Army Special Forces soldier.

Watch |&nbsp;Biden: Another terrorist attack on Kabul airport 'highly likely' soon

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They died in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group's Afghanistan affiliate, which also killed at least 170 Afghans.

The 11 Marines are Staff Sgt&nbsp;Darin T&nbsp;Hoover, 31, of Salt Lake City, Utah; Sgt&nbsp;Johanny Rosariopichardo, 25, of Lawrence, Massachusetts; Sgt&nbsp;Nicole L&nbsp;Gee, 23, of Sacramento, California; Cpl&nbsp;Hunter Lopez, 22, of Indio, California; Cpl&nbsp;Daegan W&nbsp;Page, 23, of Omaha, Nebraska; Cpl&nbsp;Humberto A&nbsp;Sanchez, 22, of Logansport, Indiana; Lance Cpl&nbsp;David L&nbsp;Espinoza, 20, of Rio Bravo, Texas; Lance Cpl&nbsp;Jared M&nbsp;Schmitz, 20, of St&nbsp;Charles, Missouri; Lance Cpl&nbsp;Rylee J&nbsp;McCollum, 20, of Jackson, Wyoming; Lance Cpl&nbsp;Dylan R&nbsp;Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, California, and Lance Cpl&nbsp;Kareem M&nbsp;Nikoui, 20, of Norco, California.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/taliban-guard-kabul-airport-as-nato-troops-leave-afghanistan-409149" hreflang="en">Taliban guard Kabul airport as NATO troops leave Afghanistan</a>

Also killed were Navy Hospitalman Maxton W&nbsp;Soviak, 22, of Berlin Heights, Ohio, and Army Staff Sgt&nbsp;Ryan C&nbsp;Knauss, 23, of Corryton, Tennessee.&nbsp;The Pentagon said on Saturday their remains were being flown to the United States.

The Pentagon has released the names of the 13 American service members killed in the recent suicide bombing at the Kabul airport. They include 11 Marines, one Navy sailor, who was assigned to a Marine Corps unit, and an Army Special Forces soldier.

The Pentagon has released the names of the 13 American service members killed in the recent suicide bombing at the Kabul airport. They include 11 Marines, one Navy sailor, who was assigned to a Marine Corps unit, and an Army Special Forces soldier. Watch | Biden: Another terrorist attack on Kabul airport 'highly likely' soon × They died in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group's Afghanistan affiliate, which also killed at least 170 Afghans. The 11 Marines are Staff Sgt Darin T Hoover, 31, of Salt Lake City, Utah; Sgt Johanny Rosariopichardo, 25, of Lawrence, Massachusetts; Sgt Nicole L Gee, 23, of Sacramento, California; Cpl Hunter Lopez, 22, of Indio, California; Cpl Daegan W Page, 23, of Omaha, Nebraska; Cpl Humberto A Sanchez, 22, of Logansport, Indiana; Lance Cpl David L Espinoza, 20, of Rio Bravo, Texas; Lance Cpl Jared M Schmitz, 20, of St Charles, Missouri; Lance Cpl Rylee J McCollum, 20, of Jackson, Wyoming; Lance Cpl Dylan R Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, California, and Lance Cpl Kareem M Nikoui, 20, of Norco, California. Also Read | Taliban guard Kabul airport as NATO troops leave Afghanistan Also killed were Navy Hospitalman Maxton W Soviak, 22, of Berlin Heights, Ohio, and Army Staff Sgt Ryan C Knauss, 23, of Corryton, Tennessee. The Pentagon said on Saturday their remains were being flown to the United States.

US releases names of troops killed in deadly Kabul attack

Air India has asked a New York court to dismiss a petition filed by Britain's Cairn Energy for seizure of its assets to enforce $1.2 billion arbitral awards against the Indian government, saying the litigation was premature as an appeal against the arbitration award was still pending.

The petition by the airline, which is separate to Indian government's plea in a Washington court seeking dismissal of Cairn's lawsuit to seek confirmation of the arbitral award, said the New York district court lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate a "mere hypothetical question" or one that depends upon contingent future events that may or may not occur.

Cairn first moved a court in the US District Court for the District of Columbia seeking confirmation of the arbitration award and then filed a petition in the New York court to seek declaration of Air India as "alter ego" of the Indian government and so it should be made liable to pay the $1.26 billion arbitral award.

An international arbitration tribunal in December last year set aside the levy of capital gains tax, using a 2012 retrospective legislation, on a 2006 reorganisation of India business that Cairn carried before listing it on local stock exchanges. It ordered India to return the value of shares seized and sold, dividend confiscated and tax refund withheld to enforce levy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-says-data-on-45-million-passengers-stolen-386687">Also read |&nbsp;Air India says data on 4.5 million passengers stolen</a>

With India refusing to pay, Cairn moved courts in the US.

"Cairn's petition to confirm the Award is pending in the District Court for the District of Columbia," Air India said in the August 23 petition seen by PTI.

It went on to state that the Indian government has filed before a court in The Hague -- the seat of the international arbitration tribunal -- a Motion to Stay and a Motion to Dismiss the arbitral award.

"In effect, the Complaint (by Cairn Energy) is a premature enforcement action dressed up as a declaratory judgment action, invoking this Court's federal jurisdiction to get a head start on executing the Award before the D.D.C. has had the opportunity to address the Republic of India's immunity defenses and its claims that the Award is not subject to enforcement under the New York Convention," Air India said.

"Such an attempt is improper, and the Complaint should be dismissed."

It sought dismissal on three counts - first because the court lacks jurisdiction "to issue a declaratory judgment because the alleged controversy is not ripe", second "Air India is immune from suit because none of the exceptions to sovereign immunity under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) applies to a premature collection proceeding of a hypothetical judgment, and third "the Complaint, which presupposes an enforceable judgment that does not exist, fails to allege a cognizable cause of action."

The Indian government had earlier this month asked the US District Court for the District of Columbia (DDC) to dismiss the case, arguing that it lacks jurisdiction since the country never agreed to arbitrate tax disputes. Meanwhile, litigation filed by New

Delhi in the Netherlands to have the award set aside also remains pending.

"Cairn asks this court to issue a declaration that Air India, as alleged alter ego of [India], will be liable on a judgment that does not, and may never, exist," the airline said in the August 23 petition.

"Unless and until the court in the Cairn confirmation action determines the threshold question of the enforceability of the award against (India), whether Cairn can then enforce that judgment against Air India under an alter ego theory is purely academic and not ripe for adjudication."

This comes within weeks of the government enacting a legislation to scrap the tax rule that gave the tax department power to go 50 years back and slap capital gains levies wherever ownership had changed hands overseas, but business assets were in India. That rule had been used to levy a cumulative of ₹ 1.10 lakh crore of tax on 17 entities, including ₹ 10,247 crore on Cairn.

The Indian government and Air India are defending their positions as rules for withdrawal of such tax demands are in the process of being framed.

"One of the requirements for the dropping of the retrospective tax demands is that the parties concerned have to give an undertaking for withdrawal of all cases against the government/tax department. So, while all this is in process, the government is obligated to respond in any legal matter where there is a time bar for doing so," an official explained.

The government in the dismissal motion filed on August 13 before DCC, cited protections afforded by the US Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act of 1976.

India in the filing said the court "lacks subject-matter jurisdiction under the FSIA because India never waived its sovereign immunity and, likewise, never offered - let alone agreed - to arbitrate the present dispute with Petitioners".

"India also never "clearly and unmistakably" excluded judicial review or delegated exclusive competence to decide these questions to an arbitral tribunal", implying that Cairn couldn't satisfy any exception to sovereign immunity under the US law, the filing said.

Air India has asked a New York court to dismiss a petition filed by Britain's Cairn Energy for seizure of its assets to enforce $1.2 billion arbitral awards against the Indian government, saying the litigation was premature as an appeal against the arbitration award was still pending.

Air India has asked a New York court to dismiss a petition filed by Britain's Cairn Energy for seizure of its assets to enforce $1.2 billion arbitral awards against the Indian government, saying the litigation was premature as an appeal against the arbitration award was still pending. The petition by the airline, which is separate to Indian government's plea in a Washington court seeking dismissal of Cairn's lawsuit to seek confirmation of the arbitral award, said the New York district court lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate a "mere hypothetical question" or one that depends upon contingent future events that may or may not occur. Cairn first moved a court in the US District Court for the District of Columbia seeking confirmation of the arbitration award and then filed a petition in the New York court to seek declaration of Air India as "alter ego" of the Indian government and so it should be made liable to pay the $1.26 billion arbitral award. An international arbitration tribunal in December last year set aside the levy of capital gains tax, using a 2012 retrospective legislation, on a 2006 reorganisation of India business that Cairn carried before listing it on local stock exchanges. It ordered India to return the value of shares seized and sold, dividend confiscated and tax refund withheld to enforce levy. Also read | Air India says data on 4.5 million passengers stolen With India refusing to pay, Cairn moved courts in the US. "Cairn's petition to confirm the Award is pending in the District Court for the District of Columbia," Air India said in the August 23 petition seen by PTI. It went on to state that the Indian government has filed before a court in The Hague -- the seat of the international arbitration tribunal -- a Motion to Stay and a Motion to Dismiss the arbitral award. "In effect, the Complaint (by Cairn Energy) is a premature enforcement action dressed up as a declaratory judgment action, invoking this Court's federal jurisdiction to get a head start on executing the Award before the D.D.C. has had the opportunity to address the Republic of India's immunity defenses and its claims that the Award is not subject to enforcement under the New York Convention," Air India said. "Such an attempt is improper, and the Complaint should be dismissed." It sought dismissal on three counts - first because the court lacks jurisdiction "to issue a declaratory judgment because the alleged controversy is not ripe", second "Air India is immune from suit because none of the exceptions to sovereign immunity under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) applies to a premature collection proceeding of a hypothetical judgment, and third "the Complaint, which presupposes an enforceable judgment that does not exist, fails to allege a cognizable cause of action." The Indian government had earlier this month asked the US District Court for the District of Columbia (DDC) to dismiss the case, arguing that it lacks jurisdiction since the country never agreed to arbitrate tax disputes. Meanwhile, litigation filed by New Delhi in the Netherlands to have the award set aside also remains pending. "Cairn asks this court to issue a declaration that Air India, as alleged alter ego of [India], will be liable on a judgment that does not, and may never, exist," the airline said in the August 23 petition. "Unless and until the court in the Cairn confirmation action determines the threshold question of the enforceability of the award against (India), whether Cairn can then enforce that judgment against Air India under an alter ego theory is purely academic and not ripe for adjudication." This comes within weeks of the government enacting a legislation to scrap the tax rule that gave the tax department power to go 50 years back and slap capital gains levies wherever ownership had changed hands overseas, but business assets were in India. That rule had been used to levy a cumulative of ₹ 1.10 lakh crore of tax on 17 entities, including ₹ 10,247 crore on Cairn. The Indian government and Air India are defending their positions as rules for withdrawal of such tax demands are in the process of being framed. "One of the requirements for the dropping of the retrospective tax demands is that the parties concerned have to give an undertaking for withdrawal of all cases against the government/tax department. So, while all this is in process, the government is obligated to respond in any legal matter where there is a time bar for doing so," an official explained. The government in the dismissal motion filed on August 13 before DCC, cited protections afforded by the US Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act of 1976. India in the filing said the court "lacks subject-matter jurisdiction under the FSIA because India never waived its sovereign immunity and, likewise, never offered - let alone agreed - to arbitrate the present dispute with Petitioners". "India also never "clearly and unmistakably" excluded judicial review or delegated exclusive competence to decide these questions to an arbitral tribunal", implying that Cairn couldn't satisfy any exception to sovereign immunity under the US law, the filing said.

Air India asks US court to dismiss Cairn petition, says it is premature

On the 58th anniversary of the Civil Rights Movement citizens in the US fear that their civil rights could be stripped off, thousands rally in protest against a Republican proposed bill in the country.

Huge protests in US for voting rights on 58th Anniversary of Civil Rights Movement

''US President Joe Biden made the wrong call in Afghanistan,'' says Fred Fleitz, President of Center For Security Policy & Former NSC Chief of Staff in a conversation with WION's. He also added that Biden chose to withdraw abruptly without working with the Afghan army.

'Biden chose to withdraw abruptly without working with Afghan army', says Fred Fleitz

After two RFK's sons spoke in favour of&nbsp;US Senator Robert F Kennedy's assassin's&nbsp;release,&nbsp;77-year-old Sirhan Sirhan was granted parole on Friday. The&nbsp;prosecutors also declined to argue he should be kept behind bars.

The move came as a major victory for the prisoner, but it still does not assure his release. The&nbsp;California Parole Board's staff will review the&nbsp;ruling by the two-person panel for the next 90 days.

Watch:&nbsp;Deserted look in Kabul after recent bombings near Hamid Karzai International Airport

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This was&nbsp;the prisoner's 16th parole hearing. After this, it will be sent to the state's governor, who will have 30 days to decide whether to grant it, reverse it or modify it.

Being a toddler when his father was gunned down in 1968, Douglas Kennedy said he was moved to tears by Sirhan's remorse and he should be released if he's not a threat to others.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-airstrike-targets-is-in-afghanistan-in-response-to-deadly-suicide-attack-408905" hreflang="en">US airstrike targets IS in Afghanistan in response to deadly suicide attack</a>

"I'm overwhelmed just by being able to view Mr Sirhan face to face. I think I've lived my life both in fear of him and his name in one way or another. And I am grateful today to see him as a human being worthy of compassion and love," said&nbsp;Douglas Kennedy.

Robert F Kennedy, who was&nbsp;brother of President John F Kennedy, was the New York senator and a Democratic presidential candidate when he was gunned down on June 6, 1968, at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles moments after delivering a victory speech in the pivotal California primary.

(With inputs from agencies)

After two RFK's sons spoke in favour of US Senator Robert F Kennedy's assassin's release, 77-year-old Sirhan Sirhan was granted parole on Friday. The prosecutors also declined to argue he should be kept behind bars.

After two RFK's sons spoke in favour of US Senator Robert F Kennedy's assassin's release, 77-year-old Sirhan Sirhan was granted parole on Friday. The prosecutors also declined to argue he should be kept behind bars. The move came as a major victory for the prisoner, but it still does not assure his release. The California Parole Board's staff will review the ruling by the two-person panel for the next 90 days. Watch: Deserted look in Kabul after recent bombings near Hamid Karzai International Airport × This was the prisoner's 16th parole hearing. After this, it will be sent to the state's governor, who will have 30 days to decide whether to grant it, reverse it or modify it. Being a toddler when his father was gunned down in 1968, Douglas Kennedy said he was moved to tears by Sirhan's remorse and he should be released if he's not a threat to others. Also Read: US airstrike targets IS in Afghanistan in response to deadly suicide attack "I'm overwhelmed just by being able to view Mr Sirhan face to face. I think I've lived my life both in fear of him and his name in one way or another. And I am grateful today to see him as a human being worthy of compassion and love," said Douglas Kennedy. Robert F Kennedy, who was brother of President John F Kennedy, was the New York senator and a Democratic presidential candidate when he was gunned down on June 6, 1968, at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles moments after delivering a victory speech in the pivotal California primary. (With inputs from agencies)

With support of two Kennedys, RFK's assassin wins parole in US

A senior&nbsp;Pentagon&nbsp;official&nbsp;held&nbsp;talks&nbsp;with the&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;military&nbsp;for the&nbsp;first&nbsp;time&nbsp;since President&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;took office in January to focus on managing risk between the two countries, a US official&nbsp;told Reuters on Friday.

The United States has put countering China at the heart of its national security policy for years and&nbsp;Biden's administration has described rivalry with Beijing as "the biggest geopolitical test" of this century.

Relations between China and the United States have grown increasingly tense, with the world's two largest economies clashing over everything from Taiwan and China's human rights record to its&nbsp;military&nbsp;activity in the South China Sea.

Despite the tensions and heated rhetoric, US military&nbsp;officials have long sought to have open lines of communication with their&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;counterparts to be able to mitigate potential flare-ups or deal with any accidents.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-origins-us-intelligence-community-says-it-was-not-developed-as-biological-weapon-408909">Also read |&nbsp;COVID-19 virus&nbsp;origins:&nbsp;US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon</a>

Michael Chase, deputy assistant secretary of defence for China, spoke last week with&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;Major General Huang Xueping, deputy director for the People's Liberation Army Office for International&nbsp;Military&nbsp;Cooperation.

"(They) utilised the U.S.-PRC Defence Telephone Link to conduct a secure video conference," the US official&nbsp;said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"Both sides agreed on the importance of maintaining open channels of communication between the two militaries," the&nbsp;official&nbsp;added.

Officials said US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has yet to speak with his&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;counterpart, in part because there was a debate about which&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;official&nbsp;was Austin's counterpart.

Vice President Kamala Harris said on Thursday that the United States welcomes competition and does not seek conflict with Beijing, but will speak up on issues such as maritime&nbsp;disputes in the South China Sea.

China, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Taiwan lay claim to parts of the South China Sea, which is crossed by vital shipping lanes and contains gas fields and rich fishing grounds.

Biden&nbsp;has ramped up sanctions on China over alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang and Hong Kong.

In a shift from his predecessor as president, Donald Trump,&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;has broadly sought to rally allies and partners to help counter what the White House says is China's increasingly coercive economic and foreign policies.

A senior Pentagon official held talks with the Chinese military for the first time since President Joe Biden took office in January to focus on managing risk between the two countries, a US official told Reuters on Friday.

A senior Pentagon official held talks with the Chinese military for the first time since President Joe Biden took office in January to focus on managing risk between the two countries, a US official told Reuters on Friday. The United States has put countering China at the heart of its national security policy for years and Biden's administration has described rivalry with Beijing as "the biggest geopolitical test" of this century. Relations between China and the United States have grown increasingly tense, with the world's two largest economies clashing over everything from Taiwan and China's human rights record to its military activity in the South China Sea. Despite the tensions and heated rhetoric, US military officials have long sought to have open lines of communication with their Chinese counterparts to be able to mitigate potential flare-ups or deal with any accidents. Also read | COVID-19 virus origins: US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon Michael Chase, deputy assistant secretary of defence for China, spoke last week with Chinese Major General Huang Xueping, deputy director for the People's Liberation Army Office for International Military Cooperation. "(They) utilised the U.S.-PRC Defence Telephone Link to conduct a secure video conference," the US official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. "Both sides agreed on the importance of maintaining open channels of communication between the two militaries," the official added. Officials said US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has yet to speak with his Chinese counterpart, in part because there was a debate about which Chinese official was Austin's counterpart. Vice President Kamala Harris said on Thursday that the United States welcomes competition and does not seek conflict with Beijing, but will speak up on issues such as maritime disputes in the South China Sea. China, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Taiwan lay claim to parts of the South China Sea, which is crossed by vital shipping lanes and contains gas fields and rich fishing grounds. Biden has ramped up sanctions on China over alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. In a shift from his predecessor as president, Donald Trump, Biden has broadly sought to rally allies and partners to help counter what the White House says is China's increasingly coercive economic and foreign policies.

Pentagon holds talks with Chinese military for first time under Biden

A day after an attack outside Kabul’s airport, the United States has announced that it carried out a drone strike in eastern Afghanistan against a “planner” of an ISIL-affiliated group. The unmanned airstrike occurred in the Nangarhar Province of Afghanistan.

United States announces that it carried out a drone strike in eastern Afghanistan

The United States has announced that it carried out a drone attack in eastern Afghanistan against a “planner” of an ISIL-affiliated group, a day after an attack outside Kabul’s airport that killed at least 175 people and 13 US troops.

United States conducts airstrike in eastern Afghanistan's Nangarhar province

The Taliban on Saturday condemned a drone strike by the US against the militant of Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) which took credit for the suicide attack outside the Kabul airport, terming, the operation as a “clear attack on Afghan territory”.

On Friday, the US military said it carried out a drone strike against a "planner" of the IS-K following the deadly suicide bombing at Kabul airport.

“The unmanned airstrike occurred in the Nangarhar Province of Afghanistan. Initial indications are that we killed the target," said Captain Bill Urban of the Central Command.

“We know of no civilian casualties,” he added in a statement announcing the first reported US strike since the attack.

The strike, launched from outside of Afghanistan, came as the airlift of evacuees from Kabul airport continued under much-heightened security after Thursday's attack.

At least 78 people were killed, including 13 US troops, when a suicide attacker exploded a bomb in the dense crowd in front of the airport's Abbey Gate. Some media reported that fatalities numbered close to 200.

Meanwhile, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid Mujahid said the militant organisation is expected to take full control of Kabul airport very shortly, once US forces leave, and would announce a full cabinet in the coming days.

He said officials had already been appointed to run key institutions including the ministries of public health and education and the central bank.

He also said he expected the serious economic turbulence which has hit the Afghani currency to ease soon.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban on Saturday condemned a drone strike by the US against the militant of Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) which took credit for the suicide attack outside the Kabul airport, terming, the operation as a “clear attack on Afghan territory”.

The Taliban on Saturday condemned a drone strike by the US against the militant of Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) which took credit for the suicide attack outside the Kabul airport, terming, the operation as a “clear attack on Afghan territory”. On Friday, the US military said it carried out a drone strike against a "planner" of the IS-K following the deadly suicide bombing at Kabul airport. “The unmanned airstrike occurred in the Nangarhar Province of Afghanistan. Initial indications are that we killed the target," said Captain Bill Urban of the Central Command. “We know of no civilian casualties,” he added in a statement announcing the first reported US strike since the attack. The strike, launched from outside of Afghanistan, came as the airlift of evacuees from Kabul airport continued under much-heightened security after Thursday's attack. At least 78 people were killed, including 13 US troops, when a suicide attacker exploded a bomb in the dense crowd in front of the airport's Abbey Gate. Some media reported that fatalities numbered close to 200. Meanwhile, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid Mujahid said the militant organisation is expected to take full control of Kabul airport very shortly, once US forces leave, and would announce a full cabinet in the coming days. He said officials had already been appointed to run key institutions including the ministries of public health and education and the central bank. He also said he expected the serious economic turbulence which has hit the Afghani currency to ease soon. (With inputs from agencies)

Kabul airport blasts: Taliban condemn US drone attack on IS-K militant

The United States urged its&nbsp;citizens&nbsp;Friday to "immediately"&nbsp;leave&nbsp;the&nbsp;gates&nbsp;around&nbsp;Kabul's&nbsp;airport, where a suicide bomber this week targeted crowds trying to flee Taliban rule.

Earlier Friday, the Pentagon said that the high-risk&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;airlift operation to evacuate Americans and Afghan allies still faced "specific, credible threats".

"US&nbsp;citizens&nbsp;who are at the Abbey gate, East gate, North gate or the New Ministry of Interior gate now should&nbsp;leave&nbsp;immediately," the US Embassy in&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;said in a security alert.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kill-list-biden-says-us-troops-may-have-handed-a-list-of-american-citizens-to-taliban-408871">Also read |&nbsp;Kill list? Biden says US troops 'may' have handed a list of American citizens to Taliban</a>

"Because of security threats at the&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;airport, we continue to advise US&nbsp;citizens&nbsp;to avoid traveling to the&nbsp;airport&nbsp;and to avoid&nbsp;airport&nbsp;gates," the embassy said.

The alert gave no further details on what the security threats might be, but it followed Thursday's attack that killed scores of people including 13 US servicemen.

The blast claimed by the Islamic State jihadist group targeted US forces, but hit hardest the mass of people who had converged on the&nbsp;airport&nbsp;in a desperate bid to escape the Taliban's feared hardline rule.

The United States urged its citizens Friday to "immediately" leave the gates around Kabul's airport, where a suicide bomber this week targeted crowds trying to flee Taliban rule.

The United States urged its citizens Friday to "immediately" leave the gates around Kabul's airport, where a suicide bomber this week targeted crowds trying to flee Taliban rule. Earlier Friday, the Pentagon said that the high-risk Kabul airlift operation to evacuate Americans and Afghan allies still faced "specific, credible threats". "US citizens who are at the Abbey gate, East gate, North gate or the New Ministry of Interior gate now should leave immediately," the US Embassy in Kabul said in a security alert. Also read | Kill list? Biden says US troops 'may' have handed a list of American citizens to Taliban "Because of security threats at the Kabul airport, we continue to advise US citizens to avoid traveling to the airport and to avoid airport gates," the embassy said. The alert gave no further details on what the security threats might be, but it followed Thursday's attack that killed scores of people including 13 US servicemen. The blast claimed by the Islamic State jihadist group targeted US forces, but hit hardest the mass of people who had converged on the airport in a desperate bid to escape the Taliban's feared hardline rule.

US tells citizens to leave Kabul airport gates 'immediately'

The posting of a video demanding accountability from military leaders over the evacuation from Afghanistan by a US Marine Corps lieutenant colonel has led to his dismissal as he has been relieved of his duties. The officer will leave US service, reports said on Friday. &nbsp;

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Marine officer Stuart Scheller has been relieved from duty for this video. 
 
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— Cernovich (@Cernovich) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cernovich/status/1431383603917643778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The officer, Stuart Scheller, had posted a video on Facebook and LinkedIn on Thursday on the day of the recent deadly attack at Kabul Airport. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the devastating suicide bombing, 169 Afghans and 13 American service members were killed at the airport.

Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Flights take off from Kabul as evacuations resume&nbsp;

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Scheller, who was the commander of the advanced infantry training battalion, said, “I have been fighting for 17 years. I am willing to throw it all away to say to my senior leaders: ‘I demand accountability’.” &nbsp;

The officer said, “I knew someone killed in Kabul, but was making this video because I have a growing discontent and contempt for … perceived ineptitude at the foreign policy level, and I want to specifically ask some questions to some of my senior leaders.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-stranded-interpreter-and-the-soldiers-who-would-not-let-go-409024" hreflang="en">A stranded interpreter, and the soldiers who would not let go</a>&nbsp;

He criticised David Berger, commandant, Marine Corps for a note sent to Marines about how they might feel about the near-20-year US presence in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The posting of a video demanding accountability from military leaders over the evacuation from Afghanistan by a US Marine Corps lieutenant colonel has led to his dismissal as he has been relieved of his duties.

The posting of a video demanding accountability from military leaders over the evacuation from Afghanistan by a US Marine Corps lieutenant colonel has led to his dismissal as he has been relieved of his duties. The officer will leave US service, reports said on Friday. Marine officer Stuart Scheller has been relieved from duty for this video. pic.twitter.com/GyxzUJ44vN — Cernovich (@Cernovich) August 27, 2021 × The officer, Stuart Scheller, had posted a video on Facebook and LinkedIn on Thursday on the day of the recent deadly attack at Kabul Airport. In the devastating suicide bombing, 169 Afghans and 13 American service members were killed at the airport. Watch | Afghanistan: Flights take off from Kabul as evacuations resume × Scheller, who was the commander of the advanced infantry training battalion, said, “I have been fighting for 17 years. I am willing to throw it all away to say to my senior leaders: ‘I demand accountability’.” The officer said, “I knew someone killed in Kabul, but was making this video because I have a growing discontent and contempt for … perceived ineptitude at the foreign policy level, and I want to specifically ask some questions to some of my senior leaders.” Also Read: A stranded interpreter, and the soldiers who would not let go He criticised David Berger, commandant, Marine Corps for a note sent to Marines about how they might feel about the near-20-year US presence in Afghanistan.

Watch: US officer seeks ‘accountability’ over Afghanistan, gets relieved of duties

The Americans called him “Mikey,” and as an interpreter for the Special Forces he did not just bridge language gaps. He did everything from easing negotiations with local Afghans loyal to the Taliban to warning a convoy away from an ambush.

“Mikey wasn’t just a regular interpreter,” recalls Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Torres, a Texan who served in the Special Forces. “He was our lifeline. He went everywhere we went on the most remote and dangerous missions. It was because of him that we returned home alive after deployments.”

But the day after Kabul fell to the Taliban, the 34-year-old Afghan was on his own.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-write-to-joe-biden-demanding-answers-over-afghanistan-china-terrorism-nuclear-weapon-and-more-409006" hreflang="en">US lawmakers write to Biden demanding answers over Afghanistan, China and more</a>

Determined to get out of Afghanistan, he was making a desperate run to the airport with his wife and two young sons when they were caught in gunfire amid the crush of people who had gathered there to escape. His wife and one son, 6, were both shot in the foot.

As he carried the bloodied and screaming child in search of a hospital, Mikey says, he flashed back to his time on the battlefield with US forces.

“I kept thinking, after everything I did for the Americans,” he said. “After all my hard work and risking my life, now this is what happens to my family? They are leaving us to die here.”

Mikey — who is being identified by his American nickname for safety reasons — is one of tens of thousands of Afghans who worked for the United States and have applications pending for expedited visas allowing them to resettle in America. President Joe Biden has pledged that Afghan allies will be welcomed to “their new homes” and called the situation on the ground “heartbreaking.”

But the evacuation of US&nbsp;citizens and green-card holders remains the immediate priority of the military operation underway at the Kabul airport. That means that for many Afghans who worked with the United States, there is little to do but wait — and try to keep out of the sights of the Taliban.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/heart-wrenching-details-of-some-of-the-13-us-troops-killed-in-afghan-bombings-409001">Heart wrenching details of some of the 13 US troops killed in Afghan bombings</a>

Mikey worked as an interpreter for the Special Forces from 2009 to 2012 in Kandahar, and from 2015 to 2017 in Kabul. He was once so badly wounded in an explosion that he had to be airlifted to a field hospital.

The night his wife and son were shot, Mikey got them into a hospital and then went into hiding. Preferring rooms without windows, he switched locations four times in one week.

He was waiting for the US government to give him an evacuation plan. He was waiting for the approval of his visa application.

And he was waiting for the Taliban to find him.

In interviews from his bunkers in Kabul as events unfolded over the past week, Mikey talked about the ordeal of trying to keep himself alive and his family safe in the chaos left behind by the U.S. exit from Afghanistan. With no word from the US&nbsp;government about when or how he might get out, he realized that the bonds he had forged with U.S. soldiers might offer his only hope for safe passage.

That is where Torres, who now lives in Pecos, Texas, came in.

He had worked with Mikey on multiple deployments, and now he had a new battle: leading a global operation to get him out.

To coordinate those efforts, Torres and a group of about 20 former and current members of the military formed a WhatsApp chat group and an email thread. They reached out to military and Department of State contacts, along with members of Congress, to try to get Mikey and his family onto a military evacuation plane.

They say they understand why US citizens are getting priority when it comes to evacuations. The outrage is over the lack of a clear plan for all those Afghans who worked side by side with the Americans, who may have targets on their backs now that the Taliban is in control.

“It’s infuriating,” Torres said. “My heart breaks for everyone who doesn’t have the support Mikey has.”

It was not the case that Mikey tried to get out of Afghanistan only when the danger became clear.

He started his special visa application in 2012, when he was in Kandahar with the military. He had his interview, one of the final steps in the process, in November 2018 when he worked at Camp Duskin in Kabul. He is still waiting for medical tests and approval. Emails he has sent to follow up on his application have gone unanswered.

Across the US, members of the armed forces are leading their own campaigns to pressure the Biden administration to scale up the evacuation of Afghans who worked as their interpreters. They have taken to social media and created fundraising campaigns such as “Help Our Interpreters.”

Military interpreters are among the most vulnerable of Afghan allies. The nature of their work required that they accompany military personnel in the battlefield and be present during interactions with locals. If residents of the areas where they worked were hostile to Americans, the interpreters could be easily identified for the Taliban.

Mikey was a teenager in Kabul when the US invaded Afghanistan in 2001. In high school he worked hard to learn English, and his language teacher suggested he work as an interpreter for the Americans after graduation.

He was dispatched to Kandahar airfield, one of the largest US military bases in Afghanistan, and from there to multiple remote outposts, quickly working his way up to become a lead interpreter.

“Mikey was always fun to be around, very open-minded with a very big heart,” said Sgt. First Class Raymond Steele, an active member of Special Forces who has stayed in regular contact with him over the years.

Mikey listened to communications to intercept threats, talking to local tribal leaders in person and on his phone. On one patrol, he got word of an ambush and of insurgents burying explosive devices in their path.

“I felt proud of my job because it felt like I was helping my country,” Mikey said.

Between stints in Kandahar and Kabul, Mikey got married. He bought a car and worked as a taxi driver in Kabul. He and his wife had children.

But the US era in Afghanistan was ending — and the Taliban’s resuming. That left countless Afghans feeling helpless and adrift, as Mikey was when we spoke by phone last Saturday night.

“We are in the dark,” he told me. “My American friends say just wait, wait to see what happens. Be ready to leave when we tell you.”

Then Monday around 4 p.m. Mikey received an astonishing text from Torres: We are going to get you out, it said. Get ready now. Wait for instructions.

The mission to rescue Mikey, with the help of current and former military contacts on the ground, was in motion — and things were moving quickly. In a space of two hours, Mikey and his family were hidden in a car, their documents stashed, heading for a gate at the Kabul airport where members of the military were expecting him.

They welcomed him, taking his family to a clinic so his wife and son’s bullet wounds could be treated. The children got candy.

When Torres got the call that Mikey was finally in the clear, he broke into sobs. He never cries, he says. Steele called Mikey and shouted, “I love you, man.”

On Tuesday, Mikey and his family flew out of Afghanistan aboard a US military plane, his initial destination withheld for security reasons.

It was his son’s sixth birthday.

“I am extremely relieved and happy,” Mikey said during a call from the tarmac in Kabul as he waited to board the plane. “My infinite gratitude for the help and kindness of my American brothers. You gave us a second chance at life.”

The Americans called him “Mikey,” and as an interpreter for the Special Forces he did not just bridge language gaps. He did everything from easing negotiations with local Afghans loyal to the Taliban to warning a convoy away from an ambush.

The Americans called him “Mikey,” and as an interpreter for the Special Forces he did not just bridge language gaps. He did everything from easing negotiations with local Afghans loyal to the Taliban to warning a convoy away from an ambush. “Mikey wasn’t just a regular interpreter,” recalls Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Torres, a Texan who served in the Special Forces. “He was our lifeline. He went everywhere we went on the most remote and dangerous missions. It was because of him that we returned home alive after deployments.” But the day after Kabul fell to the Taliban, the 34-year-old Afghan was on his own. Also read | US lawmakers write to Biden demanding answers over Afghanistan, China and more Determined to get out of Afghanistan, he was making a desperate run to the airport with his wife and two young sons when they were caught in gunfire amid the crush of people who had gathered there to escape. His wife and one son, 6, were both shot in the foot. As he carried the bloodied and screaming child in search of a hospital, Mikey says, he flashed back to his time on the battlefield with US forces. “I kept thinking, after everything I did for the Americans,” he said. “After all my hard work and risking my life, now this is what happens to my family? They are leaving us to die here.” Mikey — who is being identified by his American nickname for safety reasons — is one of tens of thousands of Afghans who worked for the United States and have applications pending for expedited visas allowing them to resettle in America. President Joe Biden has pledged that Afghan allies will be welcomed to “their new homes” and called the situation on the ground “heartbreaking.” But the evacuation of US citizens and green-card holders remains the immediate priority of the military operation underway at the Kabul airport. That means that for many Afghans who worked with the United States, there is little to do but wait — and try to keep out of the sights of the Taliban. Also read | Heart wrenching details of some of the 13 US troops killed in Afghan bombings Mikey worked as an interpreter for the Special Forces from 2009 to 2012 in Kandahar, and from 2015 to 2017 in Kabul. He was once so badly wounded in an explosion that he had to be airlifted to a field hospital. The night his wife and son were shot, Mikey got them into a hospital and then went into hiding. Preferring rooms without windows, he switched locations four times in one week. He was waiting for the US government to give him an evacuation plan. He was waiting for the approval of his visa application. And he was waiting for the Taliban to find him. In interviews from his bunkers in Kabul as events unfolded over the past week, Mikey talked about the ordeal of trying to keep himself alive and his family safe in the chaos left behind by the U.S. exit from Afghanistan. With no word from the US government about when or how he might get out, he realized that the bonds he had forged with U.S. soldiers might offer his only hope for safe passage. That is where Torres, who now lives in Pecos, Texas, came in. He had worked with Mikey on multiple deployments, and now he had a new battle: leading a global operation to get him out. To coordinate those efforts, Torres and a group of about 20 former and current members of the military formed a WhatsApp chat group and an email thread. They reached out to military and Department of State contacts, along with members of Congress, to try to get Mikey and his family onto a military evacuation plane. They say they understand why US citizens are getting priority when it comes to evacuations. The outrage is over the lack of a clear plan for all those Afghans who worked side by side with the Americans, who may have targets on their backs now that the Taliban is in control. “It’s infuriating,” Torres said. “My heart breaks for everyone who doesn’t have the support Mikey has.” It was not the case that Mikey tried to get out of Afghanistan only when the danger became clear. He started his special visa application in 2012, when he was in Kandahar with the military. He had his interview, one of the final steps in the process, in November 2018 when he worked at Camp Duskin in Kabul. He is still waiting for medical tests and approval. Emails he has sent to follow up on his application have gone unanswered. Across the US, members of the armed forces are leading their own campaigns to pressure the Biden administration to scale up the evacuation of Afghans who worked as their interpreters. They have taken to social media and created fundraising campaigns such as “Help Our Interpreters.” Military interpreters are among the most vulnerable of Afghan allies. The nature of their work required that they accompany military personnel in the battlefield and be present during interactions with locals. If residents of the areas where they worked were hostile to Americans, the interpreters could be easily identified for the Taliban. Mikey was a teenager in Kabul when the US invaded Afghanistan in 2001. In high school he worked hard to learn English, and his language teacher suggested he work as an interpreter for the Americans after graduation. He was dispatched to Kandahar airfield, one of the largest US military bases in Afghanistan, and from there to multiple remote outposts, quickly working his way up to become a lead interpreter. “Mikey was always fun to be around, very open-minded with a very big heart,” said Sgt. First Class Raymond Steele, an active member of Special Forces who has stayed in regular contact with him over the years. Mikey listened to communications to intercept threats, talking to local tribal leaders in person and on his phone. On one patrol, he got word of an ambush and of insurgents burying explosive devices in their path. “I felt proud of my job because it felt like I was helping my country,” Mikey said. Between stints in Kandahar and Kabul, Mikey got married. He bought a car and worked as a taxi driver in Kabul. He and his wife had children. But the US era in Afghanistan was ending — and the Taliban’s resuming. That left countless Afghans feeling helpless and adrift, as Mikey was when we spoke by phone last Saturday night. “We are in the dark,” he told me. “My American friends say just wait, wait to see what happens. Be ready to leave when we tell you.” Then Monday around 4 p.m. Mikey received an astonishing text from Torres: We are going to get you out, it said. Get ready now. Wait for instructions. The mission to rescue Mikey, with the help of current and former military contacts on the ground, was in motion — and things were moving quickly. In a space of two hours, Mikey and his family were hidden in a car, their documents stashed, heading for a gate at the Kabul airport where members of the military were expecting him. They welcomed him, taking his family to a clinic so his wife and son’s bullet wounds could be treated. The children got candy. When Torres got the call that Mikey was finally in the clear, he broke into sobs. He never cries, he says. Steele called Mikey and shouted, “I love you, man.” On Tuesday, Mikey and his family flew out of Afghanistan aboard a US military plane, his initial destination withheld for security reasons. It was his son’s sixth birthday. “I am extremely relieved and happy,” Mikey said during a call from the tarmac in Kabul as he waited to board the plane. “My infinite gratitude for the help and kindness of my American brothers. You gave us a second chance at life.”

A stranded interpreter, and the soldiers who would not let go

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