Secretary Of State Blinken Defends Afghanistan Withdrawal In Testimony

Blinken defended the U.S. troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, stating it was the right decision and that the Biden administration inherited the timeline. He noted that intelligence did not predict the rapid collapse of the Afghan government. Sanctions will be used as leverage on the Taliban, whose international relations depend on their conduct, including counterterrorism commitments and upholding Afghan rights. The Taliban promised not to harbor terrorists but have not clarified their stance on elections or inclusive governance.

What was the main reason given for the troop withdrawal from Afghanistan?

• The Biden administration inherited the timeline

• To reduce military expenses

• Due to pressure from the United Nations

• To focus on other international conflicts

What did intelligence assessments fail to predict about the Afghan government?

• Its economic growth

• Its alliance with neighboring countries

• Its ability to maintain power

• Its collapse within days

How does the international community plan to influence the Taliban?

• Through military intervention

• By providing financial aid

• Using sanctions as leverage

• By offering diplomatic recognition

What condition is crucial for the Taliban to establish relationships with other countries?

• Their cultural heritage

• Their military strength

• Their economic policies

• Their conduct and actions

What promise did the Taliban's Foreign Minister make regarding Afghanistan's use by militants?

• To ignore international concerns

• To prevent Afghanistan from being a terror base

• To support militant groups

• To allow limited militant activities