The US had agreed to withdraw US troops from Afghanistan after years of war before today’s chaos. Washington said it had launched the airstrikes in response to a “needless” attack by the Taliban. A spokesman for the U.S. Forces-Afghanistan said on Twitter: “The US conducted an airstrike on March 4 against Taliban fighters in Nahr-e Saraj, Helmand, who were actively attacking an #ANDSF checkpoint.
“This was a defensive strike to disrupt the attack. This was our 1st strike against the Taliban in 11 days.
“On March 3rd alone, the Taliban conducted 43 attacks on #ANDSF checkpoints in #Helmand.
“The Taliban claim to be fighting to free Afg. from int’l forces, the Feb 29 agreement provides a conditions-based path to withdrawal.
“Taliban leadership promised the int’l community they would reduce violence and not increase attacks.
“We call on the Taliban to stop needless attacks and uphold their commitments.
“As we have demonstrated, we will defend our partners when required.
“To be clear- we are committed to peace, however we have the responsibility to defend our #ANDSF partners. #Afghans & US have complied w/ our agreements.
“However, Talibs appear intent on squandering this opp. and ignoring the will of the people for #peace. #Showyourcommitment.”
This is a breaking story, more to follow…