Us troops begin pulling out of Afghanistan

WASHINGTON: American troops began withdrawing from Afghanistan as part of the Biden administration’s plan to fully leave the war-hit country after 20 years of conflict, Anadolu Agency quoted a CNN report.

Fewer than 100 troops, along with military equipment, have been moved largely by aircraft, the report said, citing several US defence officials.

President Joe Biden announced earlier this month that the US would withdraw all of its forces by Sept 11 – the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks that prompted the American military operation.

According to the same officials, contractors and US government workers are also departing, said the network.

Deployment of foreign troops began in Afghanistan on Oct 7, 2001, when the US, together with the UK, launched Operation Enduring Freedom.

They were joined by 43 Nato allies and partners after the UN authorised an International Security Assistance Force on Dec 20, 2001.