A U.S. Department of Defense official has revealed an "emergency plan" for evacuating the U.S. embassy in the Afghan capital, Kabul, in the event of a "direct security threat." A senior Defense Department official stated to Sky News Arabia that U.S. military leaders and intelligence agencies have developed "emergency plans" to evacuate their embassy staff and diplomats in response to a "direct security threat from the Taliban or other groups."
The official, who requested anonymity, noted that formulating a range of emergency plans to prepare for the worst-case scenarios in Afghanistan, particularly following the withdrawal of U.S. forces at the end of next month, is currently one of the Defense Department's top priorities.
The source also acknowledged that no one at the Pentagon or the CIA denies the Taliban's intention to take control of Kabul and dismantle government institutions there. At the same time, the official expressed doubts about the U.S. military's assessment of the Afghan National Army and local police. While the official confirmed that they possess the necessary military equipment and an effective air force to protect Kabul, he questioned the "loyalty" of some elements to the central government.
