The Pentagon has raised questions about troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. The May 5th expectation is a result of the February 2020 U.S Taliban peace deal, but some officials support delaying this withdrawal. 

The February peace deal was signed to begin ending conflict in Afghanistan. It essentially laid out not only the date for the U.S troops to return, but also the requirements such as the cut of ties with the Al-Qaeda. 

However, the peace deal — that excluded the Afghanistan government — could unravel anytime as the departure of the U.S troops are dependent on the Taliban fulfilling their promises. 

There are currently 2,500 troops stationed in Afghanistan, and an extension is being discussed as May approaches (reasons being a lack of compliance to parts of the peace deal of containing terrorist groups, making compromises politically, and a reduction of violence upon the Afghans). And despite the Taliban’s claims that Al-Qaeda, the U.S Treasury Department announced a report that indicated a rise in power for Al-Qaeda and lingering ties between the Taliban throughout 2020. 

If the U.S troops were to stay in Afghanistan, it would be to secure the safety of the Afghans and keep watch on the looming terrorist forces.

The Taliban have already suggested objection against withdrawal plans, posing threats against the remaining 2,500 U.S troops if they stayed past the due date of May 5, 2021. Despite both the U.S and Taliban having so far kept their promises on not attacking each other, it might not be guaranteed if the deadline is passed or extended. It is up to the Biden administration to decide on the issue as the deadline approaches.