Weeks before the United States is set to close its military operation in Afghanistan, the Taliban have seized the second and third-largest cities there. Kandahar and Herat were captured by the militants who have made their way across the country, securing 14 of its 34 provincial capitals.
Three thousand troops went to Kabul Friday in a temporary deployment to speed evacuation flights for some American diplomats and thousands of Americans. The Pentagon also was moving another 4,500 to 5,000 troops to bases in the Gulf countries of Qatar and Kuwait, including 1,000 to Qatar to hasten the processing of Afghan translators and others who are in danger of retribution from the Taliban for their past work with Americans, and their family members.
The temporary buildup of troops for U.S. evacuations highlights the pace of the Taliban takeover.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For U.S. troops to safely evacuate the Americans who remain in Afghanistan.
- For the U.S. embassy staff members who may remain in Kabul.
- For the president and his advisors as Afghanistan falls into the hands of the Taliban.
Sources: AP, Washington Examiner
