National Security Spokesman John Kirby’s accidental email to Fox News on 9/11 anniversary dismisses veterans’ concerns, sparking outrage and raising questions about the administration’s respect for those who served.
At a Glance
- John Kirby accidentally sent an email to Fox News criticizing veterans on 9/11 anniversary
- Email dismissed veterans’ concerns about Afghanistan withdrawal as “handful” and “all of one stripe”
- Incident followed House Republicans’ report alleging mishandling of Afghanistan withdrawal
- Veterans and lawmakers criticized Kirby’s comments as callous and disrespectful
Kirby’s Email Gaffe Ignites Controversy
On the solemn anniversary of the September 11 attacks, National Security Spokesman John Kirby found himself at the center of a controversy. Kirby mistakenly sent an email to Fox News that was intended for White House staffers, dismissing concerns raised by veterans about the administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal. The email’s content and timing have sparked outrage among veterans, lawmakers, and the public.
The email was a response to an inquiry from Fox News about criticisms from a veterans’ group, which included Congressman Cory Mills (R-Fla.). Kirby’s message read, “Obviously no use in responding. A ‘handful’ of vets indeed and all of one stripe.” This dismissive tone, particularly on a day of national remembrance, has been widely condemned as insensitive and disrespectful to those who have served our country.
Backlash and Criticism
The backlash was swift and severe. Senator John Thune and Trump campaign senior adviser Jason Miller labeled the response as “callous” and shameful. House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul called Kirby’s comments appalling, though he noted they were not surprising.
“The bottom line is that the Biden-Harris administration chose politics over strategy, and Kirby, who I wouldn’t trust to guard my grocery list, is now trying to cover for them,” – Rep. Cory Mills
The incident has reignited debates about the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal. A recent 350-page report by the House Foreign Affairs Committee criticized the administration’s actions, claiming it failed to plan for evacuations and respond to terror threats. The report also alleged that the Taliban gained access to $7 billion in U.S. weapons and up to $57 million in funds as a result of the withdrawal.
Administration’s Response and Deflection
In the face of mounting criticism, Kirby sent a follow-up email to Fox News acknowledging his mistake, stating, “Clearly, I didn’t realize you were on the chain.” However, this apology has done little to quell the controversy. The White House has remained silent on the incident, declining to comment on Kirby’s remarks.
“Obviously no use in responding. A ‘handful’ of vets indeed and all of one stripe,” – White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby
Kirby and Vice President Kamala Harris have attempted to shift blame for the chaotic withdrawal onto former President Donald Trump, citing the agreement he negotiated with the Taliban in February 2020. They argue that President Biden was left with a choice between continuing the war or adhering to Trump’s deal. However, critics point out that Biden extended the withdrawal date from May 1st to September 11th, 2021, a move that angered the Taliban and potentially contributed to their rapid takeover of Afghanistan.
Veterans’ Concerns and Ongoing Debate
Veterans have expressed deep disappointment and frustration with the administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal and its aftermath. Many argue that the poorly executed withdrawal led to unnecessary loss of life, including the deaths of 13 U.S. service members, and the collapse of the Afghan government. They lament Afghanistan’s return to terrorist control and question the administration’s national security strategy.
As the debate continues, this incident has underscored the need for greater sensitivity and respect when addressing veterans’ concerns, particularly on days of national significance. It also highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the Afghanistan withdrawal and its impact on U.S. foreign policy and national security.
Sources
2. Kirby: ‘No use in responding’ to a ‘handful of vets’ on Biden’s botched Afghan withdrawal
