Former President Barack Obama is responding to the attacks in Afghanistan that left scores of civilians and at least 13 U.S. service members dead.
In a tweet on Friday, Obama said, “Like so many of you, Michelle and I were heartbroken to hear about the terrorist attack outside the Kabul airport that killed and wounded so many U.S. service members, as well as Afghan men, women, and children.”
“As president, nothing was more painful than grieving with the loved ones of Americans who gave their lives serving our country. As President Biden said, these service members are heroes who have been engaged in a dangerous, selfless mission to save the lives of others,” he continued.
Finally, Obama said, “Our hearts go out to the families who lost a loved one, and to everyone continuing the mission in Kabul. We’re also thinking of the families of the Afghans who died, many of whom stood by America and were willing to risk everything for a chance at a better life.”
“May God bless the memory of those we lost, and protect those who remain in harm’s way,” he added.
As president, nothing was more painful than grieving with the loved ones of Americans who gave their lives serving our country. As President Biden said, these service members are heroes who have been engaged in a dangerous, selfless mission to save the lives of others.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) August 27, 2021
May God bless the memory of those we lost, and protect those who remain in harm’s way.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) August 27, 2021
Obama’s comments come after two explosions rocked Kabul, Afghanistan, killing at least 170 people, including 13 U.S. service members and Afghan civilians.
During remarks at the White House on Thursday, President Joe Biden called the service members who lost their lives in the attacks “heroes.”
He also vowed, “To those who carried out this attack, as well as anyone who wishes America harm, know this: We will not forgive, we will not forget. We will hunt you down and make you pay.”
The attacks come as the U.S. is nearing an Aug. 31 deadline to complete its withdrawal from Afghanistan. Biden said that the evacuations of Americans and Afghan allies would continue.