August 17, 2026 marks the fifth anniversary of one of the most significant feats in the recent history of the Spanish Armed Forces: the evacuation of Afghanistan.
This event not only highlighted the military’s ability to face extreme situations, but also demonstrated their professionalism and commitment to human life.
In August 2021, following the Taliban’s takeover, more than 2,200 Afghans were rescued in an operation that took place in just ten days. A contingent of 130 military personnel was deployed at Kabul airport, but many more contributed in logistics and projection to make this mission possible. The primary objective was to save lives, and this was achieved thanks to the joint effort of various units, including the Air and Space Army, which scheduled eleven flights between Dubai and Madrid.
Spanish military personnel not only carried out the evacuation, but during their 20 years in Afghanistan, they left a legacy through the construction of infrastructure, training of the civilian population, and promotion of rights, especially for women. However, the current situation in Afghanistan, under the Taliban regime, remains critical. In this context, we remember with gratitude those who risked their lives to help others and pay tribute to Afghan women and girls who, now in Spain, are far from the oppression they face in their country.