Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement in response to reporting that President Biden will withdraw all remaining U.S. troops from Afghanistan by September, 11th.  

“After more than two decades of war, the United States, Afghanistan, and our partners and allies are ready for the fighting in Afghanistan to come to an end. I understand bringing our remaining troops home will entail risk, as the Taliban will be required to uphold its commitment not to allow groups like al-Qaeda to operate on Afghan soil. However, the time has come to test the Taliban’s commitment to these conditions and its ability to uphold its promises.

“I look forward to working with the administration to find a path in Afghanistan that supports America’s security interests and our values, while also ensuring we are able to bring our men and women in uniform home before the end of 2021. This will require continued cooperation with our allies and partners in the region. I urge the Taliban and the Afghan government to engage in a meaningful dialogue that can lead to a cease-fire and reconciliation amongst all Afghans.” 

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