‘Operation Allies Refuge’ Will Fly Interpreters Out of Afghanistan, White House Says
By Brian W. Everstine
The White House on July 14 announced Operation Allies Refuge, an effort to fly interpreters who helped the U.S. military in Afghanistan out of the country. The operation is beginning as the Taliban makes major gains in the country now that the U.S. has withdrawn about 95 percent of personnel and equipment. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the interpreters, and others who helped the U.S., are “courageous individuals” who have proven their value. Defense Department spokesman John F. Kirby, in a separate briefing, said the Pentagon has not been asked to provide military transportation for the personnel, likely meaning chartered flights will be used to fly them out of Afghanistan. |
