The Airlift of US and Afghan loyalists, as well as those of other foreign nations which had been partners in the Afghanistan War, has ended, with about 125,000 civilians evacuated.
Sadly, not all Americans or Afghan loyalists could be evacuated in two weeks, but the accomplishment of 125,000 people is magnificent, and a tribute to US military and Presidential leadership.
There was no easy way out of a losing war, but America and its President, Joe Biden, can hold their head high, as they did everything humanly possible to save so many people.
And although the Taliban were our sworn enemy for a generation, they have cooperated in the exodus, and will need economic and diplomatic support to govern a nation of 14 ethnicities, and with Al Qaeda and ISIS-K as sworn enemies.
So it is hoped and likely that more Americans and Afghan loyalists will be able to leave Afghanistan, and we must all pray that is the reality in future weeks and months.
And we must welcome Afghan refugees with open arms, and not allow bigotry, including Islamophobia and xenophobia to prevent the integration of these loyalists into America, and give them the American “dream”, as generations of immigrants, escaping oppression, have found America to be a welcoming place, and have made a multitude of contributions!