The United States is reviewing its policy on Afghanistan, with a focus on ensuring aid does not reach the Taliban, two senior State Department officials told Afghanistan International on Wednesday.
They described the situation in Afghanistan as “catastrophic” and said the US withdrawal in August 2021 “should never have happened the way it did.”
The officials said Washington’s priorities remain preventing Afghanistan from becoming a safe haven for terrorists and pressing the Taliban to end what they called “hostage diplomacy” by releasing American citizens.
“The priority of the United States is that Afghanistan never again becomes a training ground for terrorists,” one official said, adding that President Donald Trump “will take all necessary measures to protect America.”
The officials cited the recent visit of Adam Boehler, Trump’s special envoy for hostage affairs, to Kabul for talks with the Taliban, saying the issue “remains at the top of our agenda.”
Women’s Rights
The officials voiced deep concern over the plight of Afghan women and girls. “We know the nature of the Taliban,” one said. “As a US-designated terrorist organisation, they have no regard for human rights, especially the rights of women and girls.”
They accused the Taliban of blocking female aid workers after the recent earthquake in eastern Afghanistan, saying the restrictions led to “more tragic deaths.” They added that Washington is supporting programmes for Afghan women and girls outside the country to ensure assistance “reaches its intended beneficiaries.”
China’s Role
The officials also described China as “a global challenge,” saying Beijing is seeking influence worldwide, including exploring opportunities in Afghanistan’s mining sector.
They stressed that the US is monitoring developments closely. On the issue of Bagram air base, one official said: “The president’s remarks clearly reflect his view. He has stated exactly what he wants.”
