Staff members at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul are losing hope that they will be rescued, expressing a sense of betrayal and distrust in the U.S. government.
According to a State Department diplomatic cable, obtained by NBC News, memos were sent inviting Afghan staff members to make their way to the airport with food, and to prepare for difficult circumstances.
“However, no one anticipated the brutal experience that occurred,” the cable said.
Staffers reported being tossed around, spat on and cursed at by Taliban militants at checkpoints near the airports. Some staff reported they were almost separated from their children, while others were caught in stampedes and sustained injuries.
“It would be better to die under the Taliban’s bullet” than face the crowds again, a staff member was quoted.
“Happy to die here, but with dignity and pride,” another said.
Indeed, Biden said Friday he is committed to getting Americans home and helping Afghans who have assisted U.S. forces, as well as others who may be in great danger, prior to his August 31 deadline.
However, he said the deadline could be extended until all troops were withdrawn.
