Pentagon Says It Found Hidden Files on Afghanistan Withdrawal

The U.S. Pentagon says it has discovered previously hidden documents relating to the final days of the war in Afghanistan, according to a report from Politico.

The war concluded in August 2021 with a chaotic withdrawal of American troops after two decades of conflict.

That period included a deadly attack at Abbey Gate, near Kabul's international airport, which killed and wounded U.S. Marines who were assisting evacuations.

It has not been specified what exactly the newly uncovered files contain, but officials say they had been concealed and are connected to the closing days of the war.

Separately, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is upgrading valor awards for Marines who served during the Abbey Gate attack, recognizing their courage under extreme conditions.

Valor awards are given to service members who demonstrate exceptional bravery in combat or crisis situations.

The dual developments, the discovery of hidden files and the honoring of Marines, both draw renewed attention to the events surrounding the Afghanistan withdrawal.

That withdrawal has faced ongoing scrutiny from lawmakers, veterans, and the public, many of whom have questioned how it was carried out and whether earlier information was fully disclosed.

The Abbey Gate attack remains one of the most scrutinized incidents of the war's end, and any new documentation could add to the public record of what occurred.

It is unclear when further details about the contents of the hidden files will be released, or whether they will affect ongoing assessments of the withdrawal's handling.

The Pentagon has not indicated a timeline for making the documents public.

The recognition of the Marines' valor comes years after the attack, reflecting continued efforts by military leadership to formally acknowledge the actions of those involved.