President Donald Trump’s team is reportedly assembling a list of military officers tied to the Biden administration’s Afghanistan withdrawal, according to a new report. The effort, sources say, may culminate in a formal investigation of the chaotic 2021 evacuation.
Two sources familiar with the discussions told NBC News that the proposed commission would gather details about the withdrawal’s execution, including identifying individuals responsible for critical decisions. The investigation might even evaluate whether military leaders should face charges for their role in the crisis.
The withdrawal, which left 13 U.S. service members dead, has drawn intense criticism. While Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign accused Trump of leaving an “unmanageable mess” for the Biden administration, Trump has repeatedly called the withdrawal an avoidable disaster.
Trump had negotiated with the Taliban during his presidency but exited office before finalizing terms. Biden moved forward with a full troop withdrawal despite warnings from military officials, leading to a Taliban takeover of Kabul in August 2021. The swift collapse created panic as thousands scrambled to evacuate.
Gold Star families of the fallen have defended Trump’s leadership and condemned Harris for dismissive remarks about his cemetery visit honoring the service members. This issue has remained a point of contention between the two leaders.
The commission would likely amplify Republican criticism of Biden’s foreign policy as the 2024 election approaches. Trump’s focus on the withdrawal reflects broader concerns about military leadership and accountability under the Biden administration.
