Washington—Representatives Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Michael T. McCaul, the Committee’s Ranking Member, today issued the following statement on violence in Afghanistan:

“The dramatic increase in violence in Afghanistan is an unacceptable violation of the Trump Administration’s February agreement with the Taliban. The Taliban’s continued attacks on Afghan forces make us question whether the Taliban will uphold its commitments, jeopardize progress towards peace, and prevent negotiations from moving forward.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, the increase in violence prevents Afghans from focusing on the health crisis. We call on all parties to immediately stop attacks and enter into a humanitarian crisis ceasefire, deescalate the cruel cycle of violence, and support the road to peace and stability that the Afghan people want.”

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