The Taliban confirmed on Tuesday, just hours after the departure of the last foreign troops from Afghanistan, that the defeat of the United States served as a "great lesson for other invaders and for our future generation." After the Taliban asserted full control over Kabul Airport following the U.S. withdrawal, spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said from the runway at Kabul Airport, "This is also a lesson for the world."
The spokesperson held his press conference shortly after the U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon) announced the exit of the last American soldier from Afghanistan late Monday into Tuesday, marking the end of a 20-year war during which the Taliban once again took control of the country. Mujahid congratulated Afghans on their victory just hours after the departure of American forces.
He stated, "We want good relations with the United States and the world, and we welcome good diplomatic ties with all of them." U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced late Monday into Tuesday, following the completion of the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan, that the United States would "work" with the Taliban if they "live up to their commitments."
Blinken told reporters that "every step we take will be based not on what the Taliban government says but on what it does to fulfill its commitments," emphasizing that what the group seeks from the international community in terms of recognition and support must be "earned" justly. Following the Pentagon's announcement of the withdrawal of the last American soldier from Afghanistan, U.S. President Joe Biden stated on Monday, "I now announce the end of 20 years of American presence in Afghanistan."
He added in a tweet, "The last 17 days witnessed the largest evacuation operation in American history." In this context, the U.S. President stated that the world will hold the Taliban accountable for their commitment to provide a safe passage for those who wish to leave Afghanistan.
