Afghan nationals should no longer go to Kabul airport, a spokesman for the Taliban said on August 24, 2021.
The Taliban are preventing nationals from going to Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL) because of the chaotic situation, the BBC quoted Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid as saying at a press conference.
Those at the airport should therefore return home, Mujahid said, adding their safety would be guaranteed.
Military planes from many countries have been trying to evacuate their own citizens and those at risk from Afghanistan since the Taliban assumed power. Several countries have reported of challenging and difficult conditions at the airport, with people desperate to leave. A firefight involving Afghans, US, and German officers occurred on August 23.
Mujahid also asked the United States to stop encouraging people to leave. “Don’t encourage Afghans to leave… We need their talent.”
The Taliban’s spokesman also said he did not believe the August 31 deadline for evacuations from Kabul would be extended, but said there was enough time to get foreign nationals out before then.
Leaders of G7 countries are scheduled to meet later on August 24 to discuss Afghanistan, with the evacuation deadline set to be discussed.