Palm Coast Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Mike Waltz of Florida passionately confronted Former Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff General (Ret.) Mark Milley and Former Commander of U.S. Central Command General (Ret.) Kenneth McKenzie Jr. during a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing regarding the Biden Administration's handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal.

Waltz expressed his frustration, stating, "The more I listen to this hearing, the more infuriated I get." He emphasized the impact on Gold Star families and veterans, remarking, "It is not about us, it is about them."

During the intense exchange, Waltz questioned the generals about their advice to the National Command Authority regarding leaving a stay-behind force in Afghanistan. Milley confirmed, "You both testified today, repeatedly, that you advised the National Command Authority to leave a stay-behind-force."

Addressing the decision to withdraw all troops, Waltz asked, "Did President Trump leave that stay-behind-force, despite his stated desire to get everybody out because the Taliban did not meet the conditions?" Milley acknowledged, "When the administrations changed hands there were 2,500 soldiers."

As the questioning continued, Waltz highlighted discrepancies in President Biden's statements and the operational planning, pressing the generals for clarity on their assessments at the time. Milley admitted, "My assessment at the time was if we went to zero in U.S. military forces then there was a high likelihood of a collapse of the government of Afghanistan."

Waltz also raised concerns about recommendations made in July 2021 and the lack of accountability within the government. He noted the failure to heed warnings, stating, "Your government failed you."

In a moment of solemn reflection, Waltz addressed the Gold Star families present, expressing his remorse, "I apologize to you, to my Gold Star families... Your government failed you."

The tense hearing underscored the deep-seated frustrations and unresolved questions surrounding the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, leaving lingering doubts about accountability and responsibility in the aftermath of the tragedy.