This thread should be the top topic--if Americans are indeed leaving tonight from Kabul. But instead people are putting more effort into hotels in Pakistan being booked out or some PTM person talking about conversion to Hinduism. Sigh!
A few things:
1) Watched both Pentagon and State Dept. Press Conferences in last few hours. Question was asked in both: Are Taliban entering the Kabul Airport. The State Dept guy said to ask the Pentagon. The Pentagon guy called it 'false' and saying the airport is in American control, including entrance gates.
2) State Dept guy said the engagements with Taliban have been 'Positive' and 'Constructive'
3) State Dept guy saying the US would accept 'any govt' which would do some basic required things (on terrorism, human rights, inclusive govt)
4) About supporting the Panjshir Resistance, they said we have been saying about Inclusive Govt. But in a separate interview at Al Jazeera, John Bolton today has said that America might support them! That's his personal wish though.
5) Airport to be handed to 'the Afghan people' upon evacuation and 'a number of countries' shown interest in managing the airport.
6) State Dept: America would continue to provide 'humanitarian support' even after Withdrawal.
7) Mazar e Sharif is being prepared for flights from Pakistan to deliver humanitarian aid. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will play a part. Not sure I saw in the press conferences. Been browsing several places.