KABUL, Afghanistan 

As evacuations continue on Monday from Afghanistan's gateway to the world, the Kabul airport, children caught in the turmoil have been among those who have suffered the most.

Sometimes playing in the scorching summer heat and sometimes unwilling to leave their family's side amid the tension around the Hamid Karzai International Airport in the Afghan capital, children are at risk of being crushed in the crowd.

Turkish troops in the war-torn country not only extend a helping hand to those waiting to be flown out of airport, but also regularly distribute food and water to the children at the scene.

After capturing the capital Kabul on Aug. 15, the Taliban have taken control of Afghanistan and are trying to establish their Islamic rule, which was removed by US-led foreign forces in 2001.

Thousands have been scrambling to flee Afghanistan as foreign missions evacuate their nationals, diplomats, and some Afghans who worked with Western forces.

​​​​​​​* Writing by Ahmet Gencturk