Hasty US forces exit against security pact: Afghan MPs

KABUL rejected.

The lawmakers also termed US President Donald Trump’s announcement to pull out US forces from Afghanistan by Charismas as against the security agreement and the existing situation of Afghanistan.

Maulvi Muhiuddin Munsif, a lawmaker from Kapisa province, said: “Trump’s comments have made the public worried. We have signed an agreement with the US and we want responsible withdrawal of foreign forces. Trump’s claim is for public consumption but there is possibility that his comments may pose a huge threat to Afghanistan.”

He demanded a responsible pullout of US forces and in line with the security pact signed with the US and warned a hasty pullout would mean their defeat in Afghanistan.

Saleh Mohammad Lala Gul, secretary of the Mesharano Jirga, also demanded a responsible pullout of US forces from Afghanistan and alleged that US forces had destroyed their installations and sent military equipment out of Afghanistan.

“Last night, US forces destroyed their military equipment in Bagram Airbase and the people of Bagram are aware of the situation,” he claimed.

Mesharano Jirga Chairman FazalHadiMuslimyar said it was unfair on the part of the US to destroy its bases and take out its military installations from Afghanistan.

He said claims that such equipment were transferred to Pakistan should be investigated.

He asked the government to raise the issue with US forces and stress that things should go in line with the security pact Afghanistan and US had inked.

US Forces spokesperson in Afghanistan Col. Sonny Leggett on Sunday said in most cases military bases vacated by them were turned over to Afghan counterparts.

"The US is working in close coordination with Afghan National Defense Forces (ANDSF) to responsibly turn over bases which will no longer be used as the US optimizes our forces in Afghanistan.”

Col. Leggett said United States Forces Afghanistan's (USFOR-A's) remained committed to supporting ANDSF through their Train, Advise and Assist (TAA) mission, providing fiscal support, and when appropriate under the US- Taliban agreement, providing defensive support.

He said images seen on social media of US equipment in Pakistan were equipment being moved through Pakistan to ports for redeployment.

nh/ma