Aug 23, 2021 5:10 AM

covphotos155905 (RM)

US Navy/Cover-Images/Newscom

1000 x 667 Color JPEG

Afghanistan, refugees, US. Navy, US Army, Afghans, Taliban, airbase, military, planes fleeing, aid, international community, NATO, Britain, children, families, Italy

No Model Release, No Property Release

Afghan refugees at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella in Italy on 22 August, 2021. They are seeking sanctuary following the Taliban takeover of their country. Refugees are attempting to flee for fear of reprisals from the Taliban, the Islamic fundamentalist group who are likely to form its next government. The previous regime lost control of the country after Taliban fighters advanced on its cities following the withdrawal of U.S. troops this year. NAS Sigonella is currently supporting the Department of Defense mission to facilitate the safe departure and relocation of U.S. citizens, Special Immigration Visa recipients, and vulnerable Afghan populations from Afghanistan. When: 22 Aug 2021 Credit: US Navy/Cover-Images.com **Editorial Use Only**