Taliban kill IS leader behind Kabul airport bombing

US officials have confirmed the mastermind behind the August 2021 bombing at Kabul airport has been killed by the Taliban. The deadly attack killed 170 civilians and 13 US soldiers as troops attempted to evacuate Afghanistan after 20 years in the country. 

The mastermind, believed to be an IS member, was killed weeks ago but his death has only recently been confirmed. The US officials did not reveal the name of the individual or provide details on how they had learned he was responsible for the bombing. 

The news of his death has been welcomed by many Americans, although critics say it does not provide full justice for the families of the victims, and the Biden administration remains heavily criticized for its handling of the pull-out of US troops from Afghanistan, that led to the collapse of the Afghan government and military and returned the Taliban back to power.

The US has offered a $10m reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction of those responsible for the attack.

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