On the third anniversary of the Kabul airport suicide bombing, Vice President Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, paid tribute to the 13 U.S. service members who lost their lives. “I mourn and honor them today and every day.
My thoughts are with their families and loved ones, and my heart aches for their loss. These 13 brave patriots exemplified the best of America, prioritizing our nation and their fellow Americans above their own safety as they ventured into danger to protect their compatriots,” Harris stated.
She acknowledged the names of the 13 service members and also reflected on the broader loss of U.S. military personnel in Afghanistan throughout the war. Harris reiterated her support for President Biden’s decision to withdraw from Afghanistan, describing it as a necessary and courageous choice.
Vice President Harris marks Kabul airport bombing anniversary with tribute to 13 service members and a defense of withdrawal
“President Biden made the right call to end America’s longest war. Our administration has shown that we can continue to eliminate terrorist threats, including those from al-Qaeda and ISIS, without maintaining combat troops in active zones. I am committed to taking any action needed to address terrorist threats and safeguard the American people,” Harris affirmed.
The withdrawal from Afghanistan was an important and contentious foreign policy decision for Biden, marked by the Taliban’s rapid resurgence in Kabul. Republicans have criticized both Biden and Harris for the handling of the exit, particularly following the bomb attack at the airport during the evacuation efforts.
On Monday, former President Trump visited Arlington National Cemetery to mark the anniversary, using the occasion to criticize Harris and the administration’s approach to the withdrawal.
He was joined by the families of the fallen service members, some of whom had also addressed the Republican National Convention. President Biden also commemorated the anniversary, reaffirming his dedication to preventing future terrorist attacks and countering terrorist activities.
