‘I’m Hopelessly Stuck’: Stranded Americans, Afghan Allies Plea for Help as Taliban Conquers Kabul

In the chaos that has become Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover, stranded Americans and Afghan allies have been pleading for help on social media and through other channels in fear of being left behind.

On Sunday, as helicopters airlifted U.S. Embassy personnel to safety, reports began circulating of Americans desperately seeking haven before the exit door closed. The moment became so dire that Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AK) tweeted out a number and an email address for stragglers to establish safe contact.

“If you’re an American stranded in Afghanistan, or know one who is, please contact my office immediately:  (501) 223-9081 or  evac@cotton.senate.gov  The situation is dire, but we’ll do everything in our power to help keep you informed and to help get you out,” the senator tweeted.

Shortly thereafter, New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman confirmed with Cotton’s office that “multiple U.S. citizens” in Kabul remain trapped behind Taliban checkpoints.