Family members of the 13 U.S. service members killed during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021 expressed disappointment in President Biden’s brief tribute to their loved ones during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly.
In what many believe to be his final address to the global body, Biden stated, “Thirteen brave Americans lost their lives, along with hundreds of Afghans, in a suicide bomb. I think of those lost lives — I think of them every day.” However, Gold Star family members criticised his comments, asserting that they reflect a lack of genuine accountability for the decisions that led to the tragic loss.
Steve Nikoui, whose son Kareem, a Marine Corps Lance Corporal, was among the casualties, remarked, “He thinks of them only because they are the casualties of his reckless decisions and policies.” He further noted that the withdrawal and subsequent deaths are key factors contributing to Biden’s standing as a one-term president.
Darin Hoover, another Gold Star father who lost his son, Marine Staff Sgt. Taylor Hoover, echoed similar sentiments, stating that Biden’s remarks felt disingenuous and that the president has “blood on his hands.” He criticised Biden for never mentioning the names of the fallen service members, emphasising the pain and accountability that still lingers for the families.
While Biden has made past statements acknowledging the tragedy, the public recognition during his UN address felt too little and too late for many family members. Herman Lopez, whose son, Marine Cpl. Hunter Lopez, who was also killed, expressed mixed feelings, saying, “It’s a little too late,” while Alicia Lopez shared her sadness that it took so long for Biden to mention their loved ones.
The families have long sought recognition and accountability from the Biden administration, feeling their sacrifices need to be adequately honoured. Earlier this month, Congress awarded the 13 service members the Congressional Gold Medal posthumously, acknowledging their heroism in a ceremony attended by their families.
Amid ongoing discussions about the Afghanistan withdrawal, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) has threatened to hold Secretary of State Antony Blinken in contempt for skipping a subpoena related to the matter. Additionally, Republicans are considering legislation to condemn senior officials for their roles in the withdrawal, reflecting the ongoing tensions and calls for accountability regarding the administration’s actions.
In a recent debate, Vice President Kamala Harris defended the decision to withdraw from Afghanistan, arguing it was a necessary step and noting the financial savings for taxpayers. However, Gold Star families continue to seek answers about the decisions that led to the tragic events of August 2021.
