The Pentagon on Thursday morning confirmed that several U.S. service members have been killed after two explosions went off near Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan.
“We can confirm that a number of U.S. service members were killed in today’s complex attack at Kabul airport. A number of others are being treated for wounds,” Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said in a statement to the press.
“We also know that a number of Afghans fell victim to this heinous attack. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the loved ones and teammates of all those killed and injured,” he added.
About 5,400 U.S. servicemembers are assisting with evacuation efforts in Kabul. The British have about 1,000 troops assisting with the evacuation efforts. The U.K. Ministry of Defense said there were no reported casualties among its government and military personnel in Kabul after the attack.
Kirby said the explosion at the airport’s Abbey Gate “was the result of a complex attack that resulted in a number of U.S. and civilian casualties.” At least one other explosion occurred near the Baron Hotel not far from the Abbey Gate, he added.
The Pentagon has delayed a press briefing that was originally scheduled for 10:30 a.m. ET.
President Biden & Vice President Harris have been briefed on the situation.
“The president met with his national security team Thursday morning, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff U.S. Army Gen. Mark Milley as well as commanders on the ground in Kabul,” the White House said in a statement.
“He will continue to be briefed on updates on the evolving situation throughout the day,” the statement added.
for more information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OScz6nrGZgA
