KABUL - The Taliban has declared the war in Afghanistan over after militants took control of the presidential palace in Kabul.

The Taliban has this morning promised to bring “serenity” to Afghanistan as it completes its takeover of the country.

Spokesperson Mohammad Naeem said the Taliban respected women’s and minorities’ rights and freedom of expression within sharia law.

However, US-led forces have fled and Western nations are rushing to evacuate their citizens.

Afghan Americans, former generals and world leaders are criticising Joe Biden for ordering the hasty US withdrawal.

Scenes at Kabul airport suggest many Afghans are sceptical. Thousands of them are encamped in the terminal and on the tarmac, desperately trying to get aboard any flight out.

The Guardian says the 20-year Western mission to Afghanistan collapsed in a “single dramatic day”.

“What the hell did they all die for?” asks the Daily Mail, as it notes that 457 British lives were lost during the West’s 20-year occupation of Afghanistan.