WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom O’Halleran (AZ-01) released the following statement on the developing situation in Afghanistan:
“For twenty years, our military men and women have honorably and bravely served in a difficult situation in Afghanistan. We thank them for their service and sacrifices. We also acknowledge the hardships they and their families have endured.
“Thousands of brave Americans, including 170 with ties to Arizona, lost their lives serving in this 20-year conflict. Since we engaged in the region, we have found and killed Osama Bin Laden and disrupted terrorist organizations. We’ve made strides in improving the country for all, particularly women and girls.
“While there is a broad consensus in withdrawing from Afghanistan, President Biden had tough choices to make. The President has already adapted to the harrowing situation on the ground and our military has made plans to increase evacuations. More must be done now to ensure all Americans and our allies are able to evacuate Afghanistan safely.
“Our primary focus must be on helping American citizens and our allies on the ground evacuate safely and quickly. Caseworkers on my team are working around the clock communicating with the State Department and are doing everything they can to help secure and expedite visas.
“While the focus must be on these evacuations, Congress and the American people deserve more information on how and why the withdrawal has unfolded as it has. We also need to reassess the risks posed to America and to have a concrete plan from the Biden Administration on next steps for the evacuation and the risks we face.”
