Rockets target US troops as final Kabul withdrawal begins, core diplomats fly out

13 Sept 09:20 Key points summarised by AI

U.S. anti-missile defenses intercepted rockets targeting Kabul airport as the final withdrawal of U.S. troops and core diplomats began, with Islamic State claiming responsibility.
The U.S. is completing its chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan by Tuesday, ending a 20-year military intervention that evacuated 114,000 people but left thousands of at-risk Afghans behind.
This final phase follows a deadly Islamic State suicide bombing at the airport and leaves Afghanistan facing a severe humanitarian crisis under Taliban rule, despite their promises of peace.
President Biden honored the U.S. service members killed in the recent attack, vowing retribution as the nation concludes its longest war amidst fears for Afghanistan's future.

Sihasak urges Thais in Europe to stay alert as protests spread

Yesterday 12:06 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow advises Thai nationals in Europe to avoid protest areas and reconsider non-essential travel, citing widespread unrest in countries like France, Italy, and Spain.
The warning comes as demonstrations escalate, with some turning violent, prompting concerns for safety and leading to an emergency Cabinet meeting in Italy and a proposed postponement of diplomatic talks.
Thai embassies and the Department of Consular Affairs issue advisories, urging citizens to monitor local developments, follow official announcements, and register their travel details for assistance, while emphasizing that no Thais have been directly affected yet.