Trump Commemorates Anniversary of Abbey Gate Attack

On Monday, former President Donald Trump marked the anniversary of the tragic attack at the monastery’s gates during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, an incident that took the lives of 13 service members. This event took place at the White House, where Trump was joined by Gold Star families.

During the event, Trump reflected on the tragedy, saying, “We remember these great 13 souls, but we also remember those who were severely injured—about 32 soldiers.” He implied a sense of inevitability about the events that unfolded, noting that “it was never going to happen.”

Vice President JD Vance, a former Marine, characterized the event as a “mistakeful correction,” criticizing the current administration. He suggested that President Biden had failed to acknowledge the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives, attributing the losses to incompetence.

In 2021, the Biden administration faced significant backlash over the withdrawal process. After U.S. troops were removed—following plans initiated during Trump’s presidency in 2020—the Taliban quickly regained control of Kabul, leading to chaos and loss of American lives during evacuation efforts. The suicide bombing at the monastery gate, which occurred outside Karzai International Airport, was particularly devastating.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth linked the bombing to broader geopolitical tensions, suggesting it might have influenced Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to start a war with Ukraine. Hegseth stated, “He saw how incompetent our army is under Biden,” expressing the need for the military to address what occurred in Afghanistan.

Additionally, the emotional weight of the day was palpable, with family members honoring the service of their loved ones. One poignant moment involved a child paying tribute to CPL. Hunter Lopez, one of the service members lost in the attack.