Former President George Bush has broken his silence on Afghanistan, he and his wife Laura issued a statement on Monday that addressed serving troops, diplomats and US intelligence officials.

       “Some of your brothers and sisters in arms made the ultimate sacrifice in the war on terror. Each day, we have been humbled by your commitment and your courage,” read the statement.

       Following the 11 September attacks, the US invaded Afghanistan in late 2001.

       “You took out a brutal enemy and denied Al Qaeda a safe haven while building schools, sending supplies, and providing medical care,” continued Bush’s statement. “You kept America safe from further terror attacks, provided two decades of security and opportunity for millions, and made America proud. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts and will always honour your contributions."

       President Bush demanded that the Taliban hand over Osama bin Laden, the founder of the pan-Islamic militant organisation al-Qaeda, which was started during the Soviet-Afghan War. Bin Laden was killed in Pakistan in 2011, 10 years after the war in Afghanistan started.

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       US forces have been present in Afghanistan for 20 years, before withdrawing in May. The Afghani government has since collapsed and the Taliban has seized control of the country.

       "Laura and I have been watching the tragic events unfolding in Afghanistan with deep sadness. Our hearts are heavy for both the Afghan people who have suffered so much and for the Americans and NATO allies who have sacrificed so much," said Bush.

       The former president's statement goes on to explain that the US government has the authority to make it easy for refugees to find safety during an urgent humanitarian crisis, explaining that the Afghanis “on the forefront of progress” during the past 20 years are the ones at most risk from Taliban militants.

       “President Biden has promised to evacuate these Afghans, along with American citizens and our allies,” Bush iterated. “Laura and I are confident that the evacuation efforts will be effective because they are being carried out by the remarkable men and women of the United States Armed Forces, diplomatic corps, and intelligence community ... Laura and I, along with the team at the Bush Center, stand ready as Americans to lend our support and assistance in this time of need. Let us all resolve to be united in saving lives and praying for the people of Afghanistan.”