Afghan Allies Left in Limbo After Trump’s Immigration Orders Halt Resettlement
President Trump’s immigration orders have halted resettlement for thousands of Afghans who aided U.S. forces, leaving them in limbo. Many await transfer in countries like Albania, while others hide from Taliban retribution. Filibustered by bureaucratic obstacles and risk, they face a critical humanitarian crisis, seeking safety in the U.S.
Thousands of Afghans who assisted the U.S. military during the war against the Taliban now find themselves stranded due to President Donald Trump’s immigration executive orders, which halted resettlement programs. These individuals, who underwent extensive vetting, were hopeful for safety and new beginnings in the U.S. after the withdrawal but now face uncertainty and danger. Many are stuck in countries like Albania and Qatar or hiding from the Taliban in Afghanistan, awaiting transfer to the U.S.
Afghans including Roshangar, who advised the Afghan Air Force, express shock and despair at the halt in their relocation process after enduring lengthy waits. “I am still in shock because I have already waited four years for this process,” he says, fearing for his family’s safety due to their association with American forces and the Taliban’s vengeance.
Despite backing from U.S. lawmakers and veteran groups, the group continues to encounter barriers in achieving stability post-U.S. withdrawal. The bureaucratic halt directly affects those who risked their lives alongside U.S. troops. Among them, Hashmatullah Alam, who had a flight scheduled to America, worries about his family’s future as they face threats in Afghanistan for their alliance with the U.S.
Afghans who manage to reach the U.S. must complete a rigorous vetting process, but many are still waiting for their chance. Khalid, another Afghan partner, completed his requirements but was left with no notice during his wait for flight confirmation. He describes the emotional turmoil experienced by those he teaches, noting that students cried upon learning about the suspension of the refugee program.
Veterans have long advocated for the rights of these Afghan allies. They stress the importance of honoring commitments to those who served alongside them. As stated by Shawn VanDiver from the AfghanEvac coalition, “It’s an absolute stain on our national honor that we’ve pulled the rug out from under people who have patiently been awaiting relocation.”
In summary, the abrupt termination of U.S. refugee programs for Afghans who assisted in the military effort creates a dire humanitarian crisis. It leaves countless individuals and their families in jeopardy, yearning for safety and a chance to rebuild their lives after years of service. The hope remains that the U.S. government will reconsider its policies and facilitate the urgent relocation of these allies.
The executive orders by President Trump have significantly impacted Afghan allies who assisted the U.S. military, leaving them in a precarious situation. Many are currently in hiding or stranded in foreign countries while facing severe risks. Urgent action is needed to address their plight and rebuild their lives in safety after years of service to the U.S. mission in Afghanistan.
Original Source: ny1.com
