Germany's Afghanistan withdrawal has come under intense scrutiny as key figures, including former Chancellor Angela Merkel, are questioned by the investigative committee. The committee seeks to understand why the German government was caught off guard by the Taliban's rapid takeover. Former Foreign Minister Heiko Maas admitted to underestimating the situation, while the Federal Intelligence Service's misguided assessments contributed to the flawed government response.
Despite the chaotic evacuation, former Development Minister Gerd Müller offered a positive evaluation, highlighting the lack of fatalities among local staff and Germany's century-long development efforts, which included educating millions of women and building infrastructure. Criticism, however, remains about the lack of preparedness and coordination between ministries, with CDU members questioning the readiness for evacuation.
Merkel's role is under scrutiny, as she was informed and authorized evacuations just days before Kabul's fall. Meanwhile, the fate of the federal admission program for at-risk Afghans hangs in the balance, with thousands having been admitted but prospects uncertain post-legislature. The committee's findings may provide lessons on governmental transparency and crisis management.
