Claims circulating online that an image shows hundreds of migrants crammed inside a U.S. deportation flight are false. The photograph, which dates back to August 15, 2021, depicts a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III evacuating Afghan citizens during the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul.
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The misinformation regarding the photograph coincides with former President Donald Trump’s administration’s recent actions to deport migrants to various Latin American countries. While Trump has made headlines for his aggressive immigration policies since taking office, the image being shared does not relate to current deportation flights but rather captures a moment from a significant historical event—the evacuation of Afghans as the Taliban took over Kabul.
On August 15, 2021, the U.S. military conducted emergency evacuations from Hamid Karzai International Airport amid chaotic scenes following the Taliban’s swift advance through Afghanistan. The Pentagon confirmed that this particular flight transported 823 Afghan citizens out of their country at that time.
- Date of photo: August 15, 2021
- Aircraft type: U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III
- Number of evacuees: 823 Afghan citizens
This photograph was widely circulated by News agencies during the evacuation and has been misrepresented in social media posts as evidence of current deportation efforts under Trump’s presidency. As Trump continues to advocate for strict immigration measures, it is essential to fact-check claims related to such sensitive topics.
The misrepresentation of this image highlights ongoing challenges in accurately conveying information about immigration and refugee crises. It serves as a reminder for individuals to verify sources before sharing potentially misleading content.
