As the Taliban intensify its offensive in Afghanistan, a Pentagon spokesman expressed concern about the rapid expansion of the Taliban-controlled area of ​​the U.S. embassy in the capital Kabul. He expressed his intention to hurry to evacuate staff.

In Afghanistan, the rebel Taliban have stepped up their offensive against government forces, proclaiming that the Taliban have conquered 18 provincial capitals, more than half of all provincial capitals.



A Pentagon spokesman, Kirby, said at a press conference on Thursday that some of the approximately 3,000 troops dispatched to evacuate embassy staff in the capital Kabul had already arrived. I am concerned about the speed of the Taliban's movement. The worsening situation is a major factor in President Byden's approval of the dispatch of troops. "



He added, "Kabul is not in an urgent threat at this time, but it is clear that the Taliban are trying to isolate it. We take it seriously and know that time is precious. "There is," he said, and expressed his intention to hurry to evacuate the embassy staff.



Meanwhile, the White House posted a photo of President Biden calling on Twitter on the 13th, talking with Secretary of State Blinken, Secretary of Defense Austin and others about "activities to safely reduce the number of civilians in Afghanistan. ".

U.S. government embassy orders to destroy confidential documents? U.S. media reports

U.S. media reported that the U.S. government had instructed embassy staff in Kabul to destroy confidential documents and other documents.



Of these, CNN TV reported that it was instructed to destroy the American flag along with confidential documents because it could be misused for promotional activities.



In addition, the instruction document states that it should be disposed of using an incinerator or a crusher.



In addition, the public radio NPR reportedly was instructed to destroy the desktop computer.



Regarding this, the US State Department commented that "the embassy in Kabul is undergoing withdrawal work as usual."



Regarding the embassy's activities, spokesman Price said at a press conference on the 12th, "The embassy will remain open and diplomatic activities will continue," emphasizing the idea that staff will reduce but will not close.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres “Stop Attack Immediately”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres held an extraordinary press conference at the UN headquarters in New York on the 13th, saying, "The message from the international community is clear. Taking power with military power will only lead to prolonged civil war and complete isolation. He called on Tullivan to stop the attack immediately.



"Only a political solution through negotiations can ensure peace," he said, and expressed his hope for a ceasefire talks at an international conference by the Afghan government, the Taliban, and the countries concerned.



He also said that at least 240,000 people had been displaced from their homes by the fighting, and pointed out that food and medicine were scarce and that children and women were particularly seriously damaged. He emphasized that he would continue to provide humanitarian assistance.