Pentagon Discovers Classified Documents on Afghanistan War's Final Days

Pentagon officials reported on Wednesday that they have found classified documents that were previously concealed in safes, providing new insights into the tumultuous end of the U.S. war in Afghanistan five years ago. However, they did not disclose specific details about the findings.

This announcement precedes a ceremony led by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to upgrade valor awards for service members who were stationed at Kabul International Airport during the conflict's final days, which included the deaths of 13 American service members.

The conclusion of the war has been a point of contention, with Republican lawmakers criticizing former President Joe Biden for a hasty withdrawal that they argue jeopardized troops and allowed the Taliban to regain control. In contrast, Democratic supporters assert that Biden's decision ended a prolonged military engagement that failed to enhance national security. The Pentagon has initiated a review panel to investigate the circumstances surrounding the U.S. exit from Kabul and to assess accountability for the losses incurred.