Defense Secretary Hegseth Orders Afghanistan Withdrawal Investigation

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered a comprehensive review and the formation of a Special Review Panel to investigate the chaotic 2021 U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan under the Biden administration, which resulted in the deaths of 13 American service members and approximately 170 civilians due to a suicide bombing at Kabul's Abbey Gate. Hegseth emphasized the Department of Defense's obligation to uncover the facts and ensure accountability to the American people and warfighters who sacrificed during the conflict. The investigation aims to examine all available information, including reports that senior military leaders were aware of the suicide bomber's presence but did not authorize action to neutralize the threat. The review will be led by Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs and Army Ranger veteran Sean Parnell, who has firsthand experience serving in Afghanistan. This inquiry follows criticism of the Biden administration for leaving behind $85 billion in military equipment and evacuating amid growing Taliban and ISIS threats, with some accusing the administration of mismanaging the withdrawal. The review is part of a pledge to provide transparency and restore trust regarding the execution and consequences of the withdrawal operation.