State Department Report Condemns Failures in Afghanistan Withdrawal Planning by Biden and Trump Administrations

The State Department released a report criticizing both the Biden and Trump administrations for poor planning and lack of preparedness in the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
The report found insufficient consideration was given to worst-case scenarios, unclear leadership and guidance hindered evacuation efforts, and both administrations failed to appreciate how quickly the Afghan government would collapse.
Republicans blame Biden for the chaotic scenes at Kabul airport while Democrats argue Trump initiated the withdrawal and pandemic challenges compounded difficulties.
The report provides recommendations for improving crisis response in the future through designation of clear leadership roles, consideration of dissenting views, and development of contingency plans.
Thousands of Afghan civilians who aided the U.S. mission remain trapped under Taliban rule due to failures in the evacuation process, which was marked by violence and loss of life.