Joint NATO forces can expand the airport perimeter and create a corridor into Kabul city with more points of access to the airport for Americans, NATO nationals and Afghan SIV candidates. Special forces can conduct rescue missions in difficult to reach areas. The U.S. can establish military hubs outside the airport and around the country where evacuees can assemble for transport. Why should the U.S. and its allies limit themselves to the Kabul airport, which the Taliban could cripple by bombing the runway?

Such a joint military operation would send a message of resolve to the Taliban and evacuate people on U.S. terms, not the Taliban’s. The alternative is to remain captive to Taliban forbearance, which could end at any time.

Such an operation is risky, and on Friday Mr. Biden spoke about the risks of unspecified “unintended consequences.” That tells the Taliban they’re in charge. Mr. Biden no doubt fears the Taliban will take foreign hostages. But trapped Americans and allies are already de facto prisoners. If Secretary Austin needs more troops, then send them in. If Mr. Biden refuses, Mr. Austin should resign over not getting the force to fulfill his mission. The U.S. has enough combat brigades to do the job.