Blinken: US efforts will continue after airlift mission

More now from the US secretary of state.

"While evacuating Americans is our top priority, we're also committed to getting as many Afghans out as we can before August 31," Tony Blinken says.

He says priority is being given to Afghans who have previously worked with the US government.

"It's hard to overstate the complexity and danger of this mission," the top US diplomat continued.

"We're taking every precaution, but this is very high risk," Blinken adds.

He says the US will continue trying to help Americans and Afghans leave after the US military departs on the 31 August deadline.

Efforts will be made "not just during the duration of our evacuation and relocation mission, but every day thereafter," says Blinken.

"This is about real people. Many scared. Many desperate," he adds, referring to reports of a child dying amid the chaos at the airport.

"Lives hang in balance during these critical days."

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