Protesters took to the streets of the Afghan capital, Kabul on Friday to demand an end to the "American occupation" as the country marks 16 years since the beginning of the US and NATO invasion, Russia Today reported.

Hundreds took to the streets, shouting anti-American and anti-NATO slogans. Protesters carried banners in both English and local languages, reading "Yankees go home," to occupation," and "US and NATO massacre – a challenge to world’s conscience!" among others. 

US troops invaded Afghanistan on October 7, 2011 with the aim of fighting terrorism, following the 9/11 attacks. The 16-year stay in the country became the longest war in US history, in which over 2,400 American troops have lost their lives, according to official figures.

The US says its presence in the country is necessary in order to train the Afghan forces to effectively counter Taliban militants.

Source: MENA