The Daily

The Bombings at the Kabul Airport

Aug 27, 2021
Matthieu Aikins, a New York Times writer based in Afghanistan, offers gripping insights into the tragedies unfolding at Kabul Airport. He recounts the chaotic scene as thousands sought to escape, only to be met with violence. Aikins shares harrowing eyewitness accounts from victims and their families, illustrating the desperation surrounding the bombings. The immense loss of life, including U.S. service members, raises critical questions about the future of evacuations and the ongoing threat posed by ISIS-K as the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan comes to a close.
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ANECDOTE

Interpreter's Story

  • Matthieu Aikins recounts meeting an interpreter who worked for U.S. Special Forces.
  • The interpreter, along with his family, attempted to enter the Kabul airport for evacuation.
ANECDOTE

Abbey Gate Attack

  • The interpreter and his family planned to try entering the airport through Abbey Gate.
  • Aikins later learned of an attack at this specific gate.
INSIGHT

Airport Gates Design Flaw

  • The airport gates' design, meant to prevent car bombs, created a dangerous bottleneck.
  • The crowds and narrow lanes turned the gates into death traps.
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