Trump Commemorates Abbey Gate Attack Victims

On August 25, 2025, President Donald Trump officially designated August 26 as a day of remembrance for the 13 U.S. service members who tragically lost their lives during the Abbey Gate attack in Kabul, Afghanistan, four years prior. This incident occurred amid the chaotic withdrawal orchestrated by former President Joe Biden.

During a gathering at the White House, Trump met with Gold Star Families, referring to the airport bombing as one of the most devastating moments in American history.

“That was a terrible day,” Trump remarked. “And I think it was the worst day, and, in many ways, the most embarrassing day in the history of our country.”

The attack, which took place on August 26, 2021, was executed by an ISIS-K member who had been released by the Taliban just weeks earlier. A suicide bomber targeted Abbey Gate, the main entry point for evacuation efforts, following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan.

This horrific event resulted in the deaths of 13 American service members and approximately 169 Afghan civilians, alongside injuries to 45 American troops and over 160 civilians, making it the deadliest day for U.S. forces in a decade. The attack was a direct result of Biden’s decision to withdraw U.S. troops, a move he defended at the time as necessary to conclude what he deemed a “forever war.” He argued it was essential for Afghan forces to take charge of their own security.

Trump continued to pay tribute to the fallen and injured service members, emphasizing that the U.S. would always support its troops and citizens abroad as long as he is in command.

“As our Nation solemnly marks four years since the attack at Abbey Gate, we honor the memory of the 13 brave souls and every military service member who has ever died in the line of duty,” he stated in the proclamation. “We renew our resolve to protect American lives, defend American interests, and uphold American sovereignty.”

“NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim August 26, 2025, as a day in commemoration of the fourth anniversary of the attack at Abbey Gate. I encourage all Americans to remember the heroism of the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and the Gold Star Families who carry on their proud legacy.”