Amid rising fear and chaos in Afghanistan, President Biden staunchly stood by the decision to leave the country on Monday afternoon, saying he "stands squarely behind" the decision to pull out of the country.
Why it matters: The Biden administration has faced sharp criticism over its response to the rapid collapse of Afghanistan and the chaotic evacuation effort. Evacuation flights were suspended Monday after thousands of Afghans stormed a runway at the international airport in Kabul in attempts to flee the country.
- At least seven people have been killed during the chaos at the airport, including several Afghans who plunged to their deaths after clinging on to a U.S. military jet that took off from the runway, according to AP.
- Many Afghans who aided U.S. and coalition forces have yet to be evacuated from the country.
What he's saying: "This did unfold more quickly than we anticipated," Biden said arguing that Afghan forces gave up and "we could not provide them with the will to fight for that future."
The big picture: More than 300,000 Afghans have been internally displaced, according to the UN's International Organization for Migration. Scores of migrants are undertaking dangerous journeys to seek safety.
- In June, roughly 40,000 people fled to neighboring Iran per week.
- Afghans who aided U.S. and coalition forces have yet to be evacuated from the country.
- The Biden administration is still making attempts to secure temporary housing in other countries for those who risk retaliation from the Taliban.