Abbey Gate bombing anniversary marks five years since U.S. service members killed

The fifth anniversary of the Abbey Gate suicide bombing in Afghanistan approaches, marking the event where 13 U.S. service members were killed during the final days of the American withdrawal. The attack, carried out by an ISIS-K terrorist, occurred amidst the chaotic collapse of the country to Taliban control.

The event has become a point of political contention in New York. Democratic House candidate Cait Conley, who served as the Director for Counterterrorism at the National Security Council during the withdrawal, faces criticism from Republican incumbent Rep. Mike Lawler regarding her role in advising the Biden administration's exit strategy.

While critics point to leadership failures and the resulting chaos, White House archives and testimony from officials like Secretary Austin and Chairman Milley indicate that President Biden utilized a decision-making process informed by military leaders, congressional members, and international allies.